(NewsUSA) - Mental illness often goes unrecognized in young children, and especially in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, it is important to recognize signs that children are struggling. Distinguishing between normal childhood behaviors and behaviors that indicates a problem can be difficult, and parents should tune in to nonverbal cues and behaviors.

"Unlike adults who are able to verbalize their feelings, based on their stage of development, children may not be able to communicate how they are feeling; instead, they often do so through behaviors," explains Kamilah Jackson, M.D., M.P.H., a medical director at AmeriHealth Caritas Family of Companies, a national leader in Medicaid managed care.

Ohio officials report that the COVID-19 pandemic in particular has impacted the mental health of the state's children.

In November 2021, officials at Dayton Children's Hospital said they had seen an approximate 30 to 40 percent increase in mental health symptoms in children since the beginning of the pandemic, which has closed schools, separated children from their friends, and cost many children their parents' jobs and even their parents' or caregivers' lives.

Children who experience significant stressful life events on top of social barriers, such as unstable housing, financial insecurity, and unsafe neighborhoods, can be at additional risk for mental health problems.

In fact, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that more than one in five children living below the federal poverty level had a mental, behavioral or developmental disorder.

"It's crucial to understand that mental illness in children is as important to attend to as a physical illness and must be treated," says Dr. Jackson.

"A first step is to recognize the warning signs."

The National Institute of Mental Health identifies the following behaviors as prompts to further evaluation in children:

1. Constant movement and difficulty sitting quietly (except when watching videos or playing videogames)
2. Frequent tantrums or extreme irritability
3. Complaints of stomach or headaches with no known medical cause
4. Difficulty making friends or disinterested in playing with other children
5. Sleeps too much or too little, complaints of frequent nightmares or seeming sleepy during the day

"Should parents see these warning signs, they should speak with their pediatrician, see a mental health specialist and consider joining a support group or otherwise connecting with other families," adds Dr. Jackson.

"It's also a good idea to work closely with your child's school to learn what programs can help them."

AmeriHealth Caritas is among the nation's leaders in health care solutions for those most in need, and currently operates in 12 states and the District of Columbia.

AmeriHealth Caritas will expand to offer one of Ohio's new Medicaid health plans, AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio, beginning in July 2022. AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio will help Ohioans get care, stay well and build healthy communities by addressing the acute and broader social factors that drive health outcomes. It will also partner with Ohio Medicaid's new OhioRISE (Resilience through Integrated Systems and Excellence) program, which will serve children and youth with the most complex behavioral health needs.

For more information about AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio, visit amerihealthcaritasoh.com. For more information about OhioRISE, visit https://managedcare.medicaid.ohio.gov/managed-care/ohiorise.

(NewsUSA)

"Honor Through Sacrifice"
by Robert E. Lofthouse

"A man can fight if he can see daylight down the road somewhere," said President Lyndon Johnson. "But there ain't no daylight in Vietnam -- there's not a bit." As he said that, he was committing the first U.S. ground combat units and initiating a massive bombing campaign in North Vietnam. Unaware of Johnson's misgivings, Gordon Lippman dutifully entered Vietnam as an Infantry Division executive officer.

Lippman was the man soldiers wanted to follow, a stud from small-town America to become a leading member of "The Greatest Generation."

This is a sweeping story on the broad landscape of twentieth-century compromise, accommodation, and conflict, from the allied war in Europe to the forgotten victory in Korea to the televised dinnertime war in Vietnam. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3Gtv4BD.

"A Tree's Tale"
by Ellen Zaroff

Incest and rage.

Every family has secrets, and these families are no exception. Three generations, two families intertwined, hidden truths and half-told tales span the decades of these two families.

Marmy's two children are distant from her and harbor secrets from each other as well as their parents. When unspeakable events bring out some of the truths, events unravel in ways that bring about addiction, banishment and a new limb of the family tree.

As fates take control, the next generation tries to learn from what has transpired, but history repeats itself. As the roots of a tree feed the limbs that make up these families, they also eventually define and shape them all. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3HwEblE.

"Sins of the Fathers"
by Herbert J. Stern and Alan A. Winter

In the tradition of Herman Wouk, this eye-opening historical sequel to "Wolf" tells the dramatic true story of the foolish prime minister who undermined the coup to topple Hitler, delivered Czechoslovakia to Hitler, saved the Führer's life and paved the road to World War II.

When Neville Chamberlain refused to meet with German military leaders, career civil servants and clergy to solicit England's assistance to bring down Hitler in 1938, they turned to Winston Churchill. Waiting for Hitler's telephone call ordering troops to invade Czechoslovakia, the signal for their uprising, the call never came. Bestselling author Steve Berry calls it "a masterful blend of fact and fiction that will have you thinking about it long after the last page is read." Purchase at https://amzn.to/3xi0I0Z.

"Kaleidoscopic Shades"
by David A. Neuman

Eleven years following the cataclysmic event that ripped apart the state of South Australia, taking civilization and society to the brink of no return, the Triplow family has finally found peace. Settling down has ensured that the past horrors of Hastings, South Australia, remain relegated to another time, another place.

That false perception is shattered when Bob Triplow is forced to face those things buried deep within himself. He will take his son on a journey back to his past, and the horrors of his childhood. A place truly out of this world, where life is manipulated with brutal destructiveness.

Within this dark, boundless dimension, Bob will learn that past events always find a way of catching up. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3qWBXnY.

NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com. 

(NewsUSA) - After years in the shadows of trendy tech stocks, solid value stocks are having their moment. Opportunistic value investors who are willing to go against the trends can acquire stocks cheaply, and benefit from generous dividends over time.

If you are a value investor or looking to get into more value stocks or seeking other financial guidance, having the right investment advice is essential, as the options can be confusing and overwhelming.

Regular investment newsletters from competent authorities can help investors sort through the mountain of stock information and make smart decisions that work for them.

When choosing an investment newsletter, keep these factors in mind to separate the experts from the fly-by-nighters.

- Broad base. A quality investment newsletter offers information about a diversified portfolio and a broad base of investment themes. The best investment newsletters provide details of what individual stock and other assets the experts are into; look for newsletters with information about capital gains over the medium- to long-term, and generating dividends.

- Access to material. At the end of the day, your investment decisions are your own, but it is important to be informed, and the right investment newsletter offers current and complete access to research material.

- Expert knowledge. Learn what the experts recommend, and what sectors they are investing in and why. The best investment newsletters offer new ideas and updates via trade alerts.

- Share with others. Investment newsletters that offer members' forums as well as expert Q&A sections are especially helpful for making sound decisions. Member forums are a rare and valuable feature, so look for them when choosing an investment newsletter. You can take advantage of the knowledge and experience of fellow newsletter subscribers and learn tips from them, as well as from the expert newsletter authors, on long-term wealth building across a range of sectors or investment classes.

- Resources. The best investment newsletters provide the background that their experts use in making their own investment decisions; you get a window into their thought process that will add to your understanding and appreciation of their recommendations.

- Reputation. For more proof that you are choosing a quality investment newsletter, you can check out what others are saying on a reputable review site such as trustpilot.com.

Find an example of an investment newsletter with the power to improve your financial picture at invest4deepvalue.com.

(NewsUSA)

"Lady Editor"
by Melanie Kirkpatrick 

Sarah Josepha Hale was the most influential woman in America for half a century. As editor of "Godey's Lady's Book," Hale was the leading cultural arbiter for the growing nation. Women (and many men) turned to her for advice on what to read, what to cook, how to behave, and -- most importantly -- what to think. She used her powerful pen to promote a woman's right to an education, to work and to manage her own money.

There is hardly an aspect of nineteenth-century culture in which Hale did not figure prominently as a pathbreaker. Americans' favorite holiday -- Thanksgiving -- wouldn't exist without Hale. "Lady Editor" recreates the life of this major historical woman, whose career as a writer, editor and early feminist encompassed ideas central to American history. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3ArTLeq.

"Almost Happy"
by Dr. Brian Kaplan and Hephzibah Kaplan

It's a proven fact: We are healthier and happier when we are laughing. Not only is laughter good for our body, mind and spirit, but it can also help us face the uncomfortable challenge of dealing with our personal difficulties.

"Almost Happy" provides practical and accessible ways to use humor to effect change. Reverse psychology can provoke us to discover, own and enact authentic solutions to many of our issues. Are you ready to read a book that will gently tease you about your issues? Some 114 original buttons and provocative suggestions are offered with a twinkle in the eye and affection in the heart. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3iQFBf6.

"Bars for Days"
by Mic Nickels

In this generational time capsule, the author vividly describes his experiences growing up alongside the hip hop revolution and into the dawn of the Information Age. He recounts early struggles being raised by a single mother affected by the 1980s drug epidemic, his coming-of-age experiences pursuing a career as a rapper and musician, and his travels to exotic destinations such as Egypt, Peru, Japan and Cuba; Nickels provides brilliantly lucid glimpses into times past.

"Bars for Days" is an inspiring human-interest story which encapsulates the relentless drive of an aspiring musician. Interactions with celebrities from the underground hip hop community provide entertaining anecdotes. But the true story lies in his commitment to family, becoming a long-distance father and dealing with unexpected loss. Purchase at https://amzn.to/31o8E4V.

"Leaders: And What They Need"
by CW5 Issac D Smith Jr.

"Has the role of the 21st century leader changed? And if so, in what way? This book approaches these questions through a distinct lens. It teaches people how the life of an army soldier includes lessons that can be equally applied to working individuals in the corporate world.

While in the army, the author took charge of multiple leadership roles. He learned that, at the very core, all these functions are similar, and reaching your full potential takes commitment and relentless hard work. Being a great leader is not only about the things you say but the actions you take. This book will help you discover new ways to bring out the best in your employees, coworkers or students. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3E9FODL.

NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.

(NewsUSA) - Over a number of years, 65-year-old Donald Summers went from having an occasional cough and clearing his throat, to increasingly frequent coughing attacks that produced mucus and exhaustion. It was aggravating and embarrassing. It also caused him to quit his job, yardwork and the long hikes he used to enjoy with his wife.

"I worked in a property maintenance job, and I just couldn't do it anymore," Summers says. "I'd get into these coughing fits, and it just drained me. I didn't have the strength."

Several years ago, when his symptoms began to worsen, Summers saw a pulmonologist, who diagnosed chronic bronchitis. The disease affects an estimated 9 million people in the U.S. and is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

Risk factors and symptoms

Chronic bronchitis can develop after exposure to cigarette smoke, vaping, airborne chemicals and other pollutants and irritants. In Summers's case, he was a long-time smoker and previously worked in steel mills and around gasoline and other petroleum products.

Patients with chronic bronchitis experience prolonged inflammation and excess mucus in the lung airways, causing a host of other potential symptoms and effects, including:

• Excess phlegm
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Embarrassment
• Sleep disruption

Treatments and limitations

Summers's pulmonologist prescribed a nebulizer, corticosteroids and rescue inhalers, but they didn't reduce the amount of mucus that would come up or the severity of his cough. This is not uncommon, as no treatment options are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that directly target the cells that produce mucus in chronic bronchitis.

Frustrated, Summers kept asking his physician about other possible treatments.

Persistence led to clinical study participation

Finally, Summers's pulmonologist mentioned a clinical trial for a new medical device being studied as a potential treatment for chronic bronchitis. Summers joined the study and received an investigational therapy called RheOxTM. In a minimally invasive procedure, the RheOx therapy delivers short pulses of electrical energy to the lung airways, directly targeting mucus-producing cells to reduce cough and mucus production in people with chronic bronchitis.

In three clinical trials, RheOx has shown a significant improvement in quality of life and a reduction in cough and mucus through 12 months.

Summers describes his own experience: "Before I had the RheOx clinical study procedure, I was constantly coughing and producing disgusting mucus. It affected my life, and I was embarrassed to go out in public. After the study procedure, the coughing has gotten a lot better. It's not gone, but I can go out to dinner, hike and have a much more normal life."

Next steps for those with chronic bronchitis

People experiencing symptoms of chronic bronchitis should speak to a pulmonologist. They also can find out if they might be a candidate for a larger RheOx U.S. clinical study by visiting http://bronchitisstudy.com/.

RheOx is approved by regulatory authorities for sale in Europe. RheOx is limited by U.S. federal law to investigational use only. This article describes examples of potential patient outcomes with RheOx. Individual patient outcomes can vary based on the condition of the patient, severity of disease and response to treatment.

(NewsUSA) - Many employers are finding ways to reward their loyal and productive employees with salary increases. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional can offer guidance and strategies for how to maximize your salary increase. Think of this windfall not as an excuse for frivolous spending, but as an opportunity to line up your money with what matters most to you, says Karl Frank, CFP.®

"With a little planning, a salary increase can become an opportunity to make a long-term impact in your quality of life," Frank says.

Some smart uses for the new funds coming in include:

1. Retirement security. If you have not started saving for retirement, a salary increase is the perfect opportunity. If you have already started saving for your golden years, directing more of your salary into your retirement accounts moves you further ahead.

2. Long-term goals. Do you have an event on the horizon, such as a wedding, home purchase or dream vacation? Create an investment account and divert some of your pay increase into it.

3. Debt elimination. A salary increase can be the ideal way to pay down or pay off lingering debt, whether from student loans, mortgages, car purchases, or overused credit cards.

4. Emergency fund. Whether or not you already have an emergency fund, you can use your pay raise to add to it. "Usually, six months to two years of your living expenses are reasonable amounts of money to keep in safe, very low- or zero-interest, accounts at a bank," Frank says.

5. Career development. Setting aside the money from a salary increase to invest in your career can pay off with even greater financial benefits and higher pay. Consider opportunities for certification or an advanced degree in your field that might take you to the next level. Seeking a career change? Setting aside money from a salary increase can help bridge the gap if you decide to switch to a different field, start your own business or take time off.

6. Fun! Spending a salary increase carelessly can be easy, but if you create a budget and mindfully dedicate some of your salary increase to activities you value and enjoy, whether that's gym memberships, sports events, concerts or travel, you can improve your quality of life now and in the future.

To learn more about ways to maximize your salary increase to reach your financial goals, visit LetsMakeAPlan.org.

(NewsUSA) - Vacations are back, but not just any vacations. As the pandemic wanes and travel restrictions relax, travelers with pent-up enthusiasm are ready to get back on the road in a big way.

Travelers of all ages are looking for unique experiences and personalized details that make a trip truly memorable.

Many people who used to make their own arrangements are rediscovering the value of a professional travel planner.

Expert planners can handle the important details, from identifying unique destinations to navigating the variety and shifting safety and testing protocols of post-pandemic travel.

"Consider us your matchmakers; the connection between the trip you've been dreaming about and the vacation we create that makes those dreams a reality," says Brianna Glenn, owner and travel designer for Milk + Honey Travels, a boutique travel service that designs custom vacations.

Travelers don't need the added stress of trying to navigate the details that elevate a vacation from a good time to a truly unforgettable experience, she adds.

Now is the perfect time to plan a summer or fall getaway, and a professional travel advisor can help. Some of the benefits of a customized, bespoke travel service include:

- Personalized planning. The best trips start with a look at what you really want. After years of being stuck at home, travelers have their wish lists ready, and a professional advisor can help make those dreams a reality.

Whether your dream is a beach getaway, an African safari, an all-inclusive resort or a family-friendly European adventure, a professional advisor can make sure that everything is in place, and that you know what to expect for safety protocols, local transportation and special events or excursions.

- Expert backup. Upscale travelers want peace of mind as they plan the complex and exotic trips that they have dreamed about while stuck at home. The more complex the trip, the more important it is to have a knowledgeable advocate in your corner if something goes wrong or if safety regulations should suddenly change.

Professional travel advisors can help with purchasing travel insurance and with negotiating refunds if reservations, flights, cruises or other travel-related activities are canceled.

"Ultimately, we save you hours of time and energy so you can focus on the things that matter most to you," Glenn says. "You get the trip of your dreams with none of the leg-work. All you have to do is pack your bags."

Visit milkandhoneytravels.com to learn how professional travel advisors can help make your post-pandemic getaway seamless and stress-free.

(NewsUSA) - When travelers to North Texas hang their hat in Plano, they enjoy prime access to all of the Dallas-Fort Worth area's cultural, sporting and entertainment offerings. But this dynamic city is also a destination in its own right, one that blends cosmopolitan flair with vintage charm for the perfect weekend getaway.

Here are the makings of a memorable weekend in Plano.

Stay. For extra pampering, consider the Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West, known for its "cowboy meets Samurai" décor and rooftop pool and cabanas.

Looking for something truly over-the-top? Take over Southfork Ranch, home of the TV series "Dallas," for the night. The package includes a private tour of the mansion and a steak dinner fit for J.R. Ewing. (If opting for one of Plano's many other hotels, visitors can still enjoy a Southfork trail ride by day.)

Sip and Savor. With more than 1,000 eateries, Plano has more restaurants per capita than New York or San Francisco and an incredibly diverse dining scene.

Legacy Hall, a European-style food hall located at Legacy West just steps from the Renaissance, lets visitors sample a mouthwatering variety, all under one roof, often with a side of live music.

Along the brick-lined streets of Plano's charming, historic Downtown Arts District, you'll find everything from Japanese robata at Ebesu and pub fare at The Fillmore to artisan pizza at Urban Crust and tacos at its sister restaurant, Urban Rio.

The Boardwalk at Granite Park is another fun "restaurant row" with everything from burgers to English high tea.

Shop, See and Do. With four major walkable retail districts, Plano is a shopper's dream.

At Legacy West, Teslas are on offer alongside home furnishings, décor and more.

The nearby Shops at Legacy are the place to stroll outdoors, shop popular brands, catch an indie film or indulge in a spa treatment.

The upscale Shops at Willow Bend offer a well-rounded mix of stores anchored by Neiman-Marcus. They also house a special attraction for families -- one of only five Crayola Experiences in the nation.

The streets of quaint downtown Plano brim with charming art galleries and independent boutiques like Lyla's and La Foofaraw, and shoppers can also take in colorful murals, a farmer's market and outdoor concerts.

For more ideas for Plano lodging, dining and activities, check out visitplano.com.

(NewsUSA) - After nearly two years of living with COVID-19, many of us, especially older adults and caregivers, could benefit from checking up on our health and lifestyle habits -- and could use help with finding connections to local resources that can help. Older adults, caregivers and families can find local services that can address changes that may have gone unnoticed or untreated during the height of the pandemic by using the Eldercare Locator, a public service of the U.S. Administration for Community Living.

Wondering what changes to look for in yourself or the older adults you know? Here are just some of the changes that older adults may have experienced during the pandemic that may need to be addressed.

• Physical Condition: If you notice that you or an older loved one is walking more slowly or having more difficulty seeing, hearing or reading, it may be time to seek medical advice.
• Changes Needed in the Home: Take a look at your home or the home of an older loved one, and consider whether you or the person you are concerned about need to make simple repairs or modifications such as installing grab bars in the shower or lights in a dark hallway.
• In-Home Support: Are you or the older adults in your life finding it harder to keep up with daily tasks? As a result of the pandemic, many of us have developed a need for in-home support with activities like housekeeping, meal preparation and personal care.
• Social Connection: A lack of in-person interaction, especially for older adults, can lead to loneliness and a loss of social connection. Whether it is volunteering or a pen pal program, there are many engagement opportunities that can provide social connection.
• Safety and Security: If you suspect that you or an older loved one have been taken advantage of by a scam, contact the Eldercare Locator to find local resources that can help address the situation.

By providing information about local transportation, meal services, home modification and repair services and so much more, the Eldercare Locator helps ensure that older adults, caregivers and families are connected to tools that can help them age well and live independently. Many of these services are provided by local Area Agencies on Aging and Title VI Native American Aging Programs, which serve nearly every community in the country. Finding local resources is just one call or click away.

Contact the Eldercare Locator at 1 (800)-677-1116 from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm ET Monday through Friday, or through its website, eldercare.acl.gov, 24 hours a day.

(NewsUSA) - Millions of Americans whose federal student loan payments were paused during the COVID-19 pandemic will see this monthly expense resume this spring. Around the same time, the first student loan payments will come due for the graduating class of 2022.

If you are among either of these groups, you may be wondering how to prepare yourself financially. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM professional can help you plan ahead and make sure you don't fall behind in your student loan payments.

Here are four benefits of working with a CFP® professional to manage your student loans:

1. Get and stay organized. When you have a student loan, it's important to know the name of your loan servicer, loan terms, estimated payment amounts, and payment schedule. If you plan to use auto-debit to make your payments, you need to provide your loan servicer with the correct account number. A CFP® professional can help you get this information in order and keep track of payment details.

2. Ensure you have sufficient cash flow to cover loan payments. A CFP® professional will help you incorporate student loan payments into your monthly budget. This means not only adding your payment amount to your fixed monthly expenses, but also identifying opportunities to save money elsewhere. That may involve cutting back on discretionary spending, consolidating other loans or refinancing high-interest debt.

3. Choose your best repayment strategy. There are multiple repayment options available to federal loan borrowers. Some allow you to double the length of your repayment term; others base monthly payment amounts on your discretionary income. Students with private loans may have different repayment options to consider, and private loan repayment plans may vary by lender. A CFP® professional can help you evaluate all of your repayment options and determine which one is best for your financial situation.

4. Avoid the consequences of default. Missed payments can lead to a lower credit score, garnished wages and tax refunds and a possible loss of access to future student aid. But your chances of default will be lower if you take the time to prepare your finances with the help of a CFP® professional.

Visit LetsMakeAPlan.org to learn more about preparing for your student loan payments as well as how to find a CFP® professional near you.

College is expensive, and managing student loan debt can feel overwhelming. A CFP® professional can help you figure out a plan for timely repayment while balancing your other financial goals.