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Biden Administration’s Sweeping Change To Asylum Process

immigrants

The Biden administration is in the final phase of rolling out a new policy on the asylum-seeking process, which aims to take the burden of the already backlogged state immigration courts.

The new policy allows asylum seekers to have their cases heard and determined by immigration personnel rather than immigration judges.

It Is Meant To Speed up The Process

According to government officials, the goal of the change of policy is to reduce the length of time the process takes from an average of five years down to six months. The administration seeks to achieve this by releasing apprehended asylum seekers under parole status as they await clearance. According to government data, border patrol has been apprehending approximately 13,000 undocumented immigrants every day in recent months.

Biden won the presidency partially on the promise of restoring humanity to the asylum-seeking process. This promise came after the Trump Administration’s restrictive measures that yielded the most enforcement activity in recent American history.

However, former President Trump is not the only one responsible for the backlog of the 670,000 pending cases. Some cases predate the Trump era, although the administration’s policies may have worsened the situation.

A Sensible Asylum-Seeking Process

“This is arguably the most significant asylum policy change under Biden’s administration and could finally speed up the asylum process” says immigration lawyer Brandon Ritchie of Ritchie-Reiersen Injury & Immigration Attorneys.

According to immigration officials that spoke to the media on a condition of anonymity, the roll-out of the new policy would be gradual but failed to reveal the exact roll-out date.

According to Homeland Security Secretary Austin C. Kocher, the policy change will help the government build a more sensible and functional asylum system that ensures eligible candidates go through the system quickly. At the same time, the ineligible are removed just as quickly. This plan will require the government to hire hundreds of asylum officers to determine at least 75,000 asylum seekers’ cases yearly.

Asylum Advocacy Rights Concerns

Many immigration advocates view the idea of rushing asylum seekers as having the potential of denying them due process. According to immigration advocacy groups, rushing asylum seekers through the process will mean having less time to access legal help, gather evidence, or prepare their case, thus placing them at a disadvantage. Also, there is fear that the policy will open a door for expedited removal, which many advocates say is unfair and flawed.

The expedited removal policy established in 1996 gives immigration officials authority to deport persons that did not express the fear of returning to their country without a hearing. Those who fear returning to their country of origin are scheduled for a “credible fear” assessment with an asylum officer.

It Is Less Confrontational

Under the current policy, immigrants that have passed the initial assessment phase have to appear before an immigration judge to file an official application for asylum. But under the new policy, migrants who pass the first screening process will not need to appear before a judge. Instead, they will appear before an asylum officer, a less confrontational option than facing government prosecutors in court.

Critics of the new policy express fear that the expedited removal policy will only serve to draw more asylum seekers to the border. According to Andrew R. Arthur of the Center for Immigration Studies, immigrants know that they only need to cite fear to get a free pass, evidenced by the large number of people citing fear since the expedited removal policy came into force.

Wrongful Deaths in Workplace Accidents Statistics and Claims

Workplace Accidents

America has come a long way in ensuring workplace safety. However, even with state and federal government’s efforts to impose strict regulations preventing work-related accidents, they still happen, with some resulting in fatalities.

“15 workers die every day in America due to work-related injuries,” cited an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) report.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicated that 4,764 work-related deaths occurred in America in 2020, a 10 percent decrease from the previous year, with 5,333 reported cases. According to the report, workers in transportation, material moving, construction, and extraction occupations accounted for 47 percent of all occupational deaths, earning these occupations a spot among the riskiest.

The Employer Has a Responsibility

Every employer has an ethical and legal responsibility to provide a safe working environment for their employees. If a work-related accident, illness, or death results from the employer’s negligence, the affected party or beneficiaries are eligible for compensation. In some states, the law requires every employer to carry worker compensation insurance coverage to protect themselves from liability and ensure that employees get compensation for workplace-related injuries or death.  In Texas, that is not the case.  An employer does not have to maintain workers’ compensation insurance coverage, but if they do not, and their negligence is a cause of the worker’s injury, the employer can be held liable for those injuries.

Wrongful death in the workplace can result from injuries sustained in an accident or from a work-related illness. The surviving beneficiaries are eligible for compensation under workers’ compensation if death was caused by an on-the-job injury or work-related illness.

Wrongful death in a workplace can also result from the negligent actions of a third party, for example, a contractor. Under such circumstances, the third party may also be liable for the damages. Typically, wrongful death benefits are payable to surviving spouses or their children.

Recoverable Benefits

Some of the damages an injured worker can recover in a wrongful death lawsuit include:

  • Loss of consortium
  • Lost earnings
  • Lost services
  • Support or love
  • Pain and suffering

If death results from a protracted illness, the bereaved dependents can recover economic damages to cover all medical bills incurred.

Additionally, if the death resulted from the intentional conduct of an employer or under circumstances that would be considered gross misconduct, surviving dependents can recover punitive damages. Wrongful death claims can sometimes result in significant payouts. However, the compensation value will depend on several factors such as the victim’s life expectancy, the level of income, factoring in future pay rise, and the age of the dependents.

Hiring A Lawyer Is Important

While a wrongful death claim is supposed to be straightforward, it can get complicated. At other times, insurance adjusters may want to deny survivors what they rightfully deserve. Therefore, hiring a personal injury attorney when navigating a wrongful death claim is important to ensure that your rights are protected.

“A wrongful death attorney will build a solid case for projected earnings over the expected lifespan of the deceased, as well as compensation for medical and funeral costs. A lawyer will also seek to obtain financial relief for the loss of love, companionship, protection, and all other compensation that is available to you,” says wrongful death lawyer Lin McCraw from the McCraw Law Group.

Most wrongful death lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay after recovering your damages. While no amount of settlement can replace a loved one, compensation for the wrongful death of a breadwinner can make dealing with the loss more bearable.

Drug Testing: A Core Requirement For Commercial Truck Drivers

truck driver

Truck accidents are common in the United States and cause many fatal injuries each year. Most truck accidents result from the following:

  • Falling asleep behind the wheel
  • Distracted driving (texting, eating, adjusting music, etc.)
  • Speeding
  • Driving under the influence (drugs, alcohol)

The fatality rate of truck accidents has led different states to draft laws aimed at preventing these incidents. The Transportation Employee Testing Act, passed by Congress in 1991, mandated that the Department of Transportation establish drug and alcohol testing for employees.

Truck accidents are a severe hazard, especially in Atlanta and other regions. These large vehicles, called 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, semis, or big rigs, can be devastating when involved in an auto accident. Embry Law Truck Accidents is knowledgeable about such cases and offers dedicated service to clients throughout Georgia. We make sure all the needs of our customers are taken care of.

By this law, truck drivers must submit themselves to drug testing. It is now the driver’s responsibility to adhere to the drug testing rule. Truck drivers are subjected to drug testing several times throughout their careers to ensure that they are in a good state of mind to drive.

What is a Drug Test Analysis?

As a transport company employee, you undergo a series of tests, including drug tests from your company. However, the drug test by the Department of Transportation is different.

They check for drugs using a urine sample and check for alcohol using a breathalyzer. The findings of this drug test are not immediate or quick. For the most reliable results, all samples are thoroughly analyzed. The drug test analysis is to test for the presence of:

  • Marijuana
  • Amphetamines or methamphetamine
  • Cocaine
  • Phencyclidine
  • Opiates or codeine  

On the other hand, the breathalyzer checks for alcohol concentration levels of 0.002 and above. The test can detect traces of drugs or alcohol from a person who used either substance in the past 30 days. 

Who are the Tests For?

The alcohol and drug testing rules apply to most commercially licensed drivers on public roadways. The aim of drug testing on these commercial truck drivers is to dissuade them from abusing drugs and alcohol, thereby endangering the lives of other road users.

The rules and regulations are there for the safety of truck drivers and everyone else on the road. Truck drivers should not see the drug test as a bothersome task. Employers must recognize and respond to an employee’s alcohol or drug problem as early as possible.

The drug test is not restricted to only truck drivers. Other professionals, such as airline crew, train operators, or people working on pipelines, must also take the drug and alcohol test. 

When are the Tests Required?

Truck drivers take alcohol and drug tests on different occasions. The first is the pre-employment stage. In this stage, the company requires its employees to carry out a drug test independently. A negative result must be presented to the employer before the candidate can drive a commercial motor vehicle.

A driver may also be subjected to a drug test if there are suspicions that they are under the influence. This suspicion may arise from the driver’s looks, smell, or the way they speak. If the evidence backs up the accusation, the driver will be required to undergo a drug test for confirmation.

If a truck driver is involved in an accident, the alcohol and drug testing depends solely on how severe the crash was. The driver will still undergo these tests whether the collision involves bodily harm or not. Undergoing the test will ensure insurance protection for both the driver and the company. The results from an alcohol test will be ready within 8 hours after a crash, while a drug test takes up to 32 hours.

A truck driver may also be subjected to random testing. The random test happens every quarter of the year. Employers must adhere to arbitrary selection rules.

Drug Test Preparation

Before going in for a drug test, you should drink lots of water and stay hydrated, as a urine sample is required. Also, if you are on any legal, prescriptive medication, it may tamper with your drug test result. It is best to notify the healthcare provider about your legal medications to avoid a false-positive result. In these cases, you may have to do a follow-up test and show your prescription information.

What Does a Positive Drug Test Result Signify?

If an individual tests positive or even refrains from taking the drug test, they risk losing authorization to drive a commercial motor vehicle or perform other safety-sensitive functions. Additionally, the person may lose their commercial driver’s license or certification. They will have to undergo complete return-to-duty drug tests and screenings to return to work.

The return-to-duty drug test will be carried out under the supervision of a qualified substance abuse professional from the Department of Transportation. The individual must also provide at least six negative results directly observed by the department within a year. This may extend to four additional years.

Does a Positive Result Have an Impact On My Record?

Testing positive to alcohol and drug tests will undoubtedly impact your record until the return-to-duty screening process is fully complete. Afterward, the violation will remain on CDL Clearinghouse for about five years.

The CDL Clearinghouse provides an online database where government agencies and employers can have real-time access to details about an individual’s CDL drug and alcohol program violations. Potential employers can only access your drug test with your consent, but your refusal to give consent may lead to lost opportunities.

Learn More about Truck Driver Drug Testing

The commercial truck driver requirements for drug and alcohol testing may seem rigid, but these precautions are for the safety of the driver and all other road users. As an individual who performs safety-sensitive functions, it is crucial to take these precautions to prevent serious accidents.

Drivers to Be More Cautious As the Weather Warms Up

Car Driving

As the weather warms up, there are expectations for more motorcyclists to hit the road, leading to an increased risk for crashes and injuries. According to the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CT DOT), 68 people died in motorcycle crashes in 2021. It was the highest ever recorded by the state in 30 years.

“While motorcyclists need to be extra careful on the road, the same goes for drivers for their own safety and the safety of motorcyclists,” says attorney Jan Dils. While driving, motorists concentrate more on other cars and often ignore checking for motorcyclists around them, resulting in crashes. With the rate of motorcycle fatalities experienced in 2021, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CT DOT) reminded motorists to be more cautious on the road.

Causes of Motorcycle Crashes During the Warmer Season

The warmer months are a popular season when people go on vacations or travel to see loved ones. During this period, the road is always congested, causing an increase in the risks of road accidents occurring.

Listed below are some of the common causes of motorcycle crashes during this time period:

#1. Students on Summer Break

Students usually return home during their summer break. Most of these students are inexperienced drivers and may to drive out to see their friends or go on a road trip.

However, the risk of accidents for inexperienced drivers is higher than for those with experience. Thus, with these students behind the wheel, there is a higher chance of accidents occurring, which can be fatal to motorcyclists. The reason is that they are on the receiving end of serious injury when an accident happens due to lack of protection.

#2. Road Constructions During the Summer

During the winter season, there is less construction on the roads due to snowfall. However, as the weather warms up, from spring to summer, road construction continues.

Construction causes many road hazards such as construction trucks, traffic cones, and slower speed limits. All of these can cause a collision if drivers do not see motorcyclists while driving.

#3. Driving Under the Influence

Drunk driving usually happens throughout every season of the year. But, during warmer seasons, there is this craving for cold drinks, hanging out outside, and going on vacations. Therefore, during summer there are various activities, such as picnics with friends and parties, which require drinks like alcohol.

Unfortunately, some motorcyclists and motorists tend to get behind the wheel drunk after attending these activities. Drunk driving impairs driving skills such as coordination, judgment, and reasoning. As a result, it can result in crashes that can cause serious injuries or death to motorcyclists, motorists, and other road users.

#4. Weather Conditions

Bad weather conditions are another factor contributing to motorcyclist accidents. Summer can bring unexpected rain, reducing visibility and making roadways slippery.

However, some bikers may prefer to continue riding in this poor weather to get to their destination instead of pulling over until the weather improves. Unfortunately, this can lead to accidents causing injuries or death.

#5. Driver Negligence

Most times, motorcyclists are careful when riding their motorbikes. On the other hand, motorists may be negligent when driving. Thus, leading to accidents that can injure both drivers and other road users.

Such accidents can occur due to distracted driving, like trying to pick up a call or reply to a text while driving. Other negligent driving includes speeding, failure to yield, or not paying attention to traffic signs.

CT DOT Tips to Keep the Road Safer For Motorcyclists

Other road users can help keep the roads safer for motorcyclists by adopting safe driving habits. Here are some driving guidelines from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CT DOT) for motorists:

#1. Checking Blind Spots Always and Pass with Caution

Naturally, motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles. Thus, making it harder for drivers to notice them when merging or switching lanes. Before changing lanes, motorists should take their time and inspect the blind spots of their cars before continuing with their intended move.

Furthermore, it is also advisable for motorists to be very cautious when passing motorcyclists. They should always use their turn signal to alert the motorcycle riders of their intentions. Also, before motorists return to their lane, they should ensure they are many car lengths ahead of the motorcyclist.

#2. Speeding

Motorists should always bear in mind that motorcyclists can react faster than vehicles due to their size. Thus, they should avoid tailgating and keep a safe distance behind vehicles. Doing this will prevent rear-end collisions as they can be deadly to motorcyclists.

However, drivers can help keep motorcyclists safe by increasing their following distance, especially when driving at night. While maintaining this safe distance, they should also ensure that their high beams are off when they spot an oncoming motorcycle. When driving with the high beams on, one must dim them at least 500 feet from any approaching car or motorcycle.

#3. Stay in Your Lane and Take Another Look Before Turning Left

By law, motorcycles have their traffic lanes. Thus, on no account should motorists drive in the same lane as the motorcyclists or even try getting closer to the lanes designated for motorcyclists. Trying to share traffic lanes with motorcyclists means confusion and a possible collision that can be fatal for motorcyclists.

Furthermore, motorists should always take a second look at incoming motorbikes before crossing a lane of traffic to turn left. Accidents involving a left-turning vehicle colliding with an oncoming motorcycle can be devastating.

#4. Be Cautious of Turning Motorcycles and Alert Them When Turning

When motorists want to turn, they should always alert motorcyclists of their intention to turn. When they notice motorcycles following them, they have to activate their turn signal earlier than they usually do.

On the other hand, motorists should also be cautious of turning motorcycles. They should increase their following distance if they detect a motorbike riding with its turn signal on for an unusually long road distance. Doing this will help them have enough time to react if the rider decides to turn.

#5. Avoiding Bad Weather Conditions and Always Adhere to the intersection Safety Protocol

Intersections are high-risk zones where many vehicle accidents involving two cars and motorbikes happen. Therefore, when approaching an intersection, always come to a complete stop. Then, observe and obey the traffic signs and signals, look both ways for oncoming vehicles and motorbikes, and continue slowly.

Furthermore, motorists should also avoid bad weather conditions while driving. It could obstruct their visibility to see motorbikes ahead or behind them. When driving and one notices a change in weather, they should park and wait for the weather to improve before continuing their journey.

Conclusion

Motorists also have to play a part in their own safety and for other road users. They should also maintain proper following road distance and wear their helmets always to reduce the degree of injury when an accident occurs. Also, since other vehicles find it difficult to spot them because of their size, they should always wear visible gear, especially at night.

Introduction to Umbrella Insurance

Personal Liability Insurance (PLI) is designed to help protect your assets when any form of disaster hits you. For instance, you may be financially responsible for damages to someone’s property. You may crash into someone’s house, in which case liability car insurance will cover legal expenses and the judgment of settlement.

What happens when the liability exceeds your insurance coverage limits? You could lose significant assets despite having liability insurance in some instances. This is where Umbrella Insurance comes in. It’s a form of insurance designed to help protect you from losing your assets in the case of any form of catastrophe where you are financially responsible.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella Insurance is a form of extra insurance for additional coverage in cases where the limits of your existing insurance have been exceeded. It is designed for situations where the expenses associated with a liability claim for which you are responsible far exceeds what your PLI can handle.

Umbrella insurance differs from provider to provider, with each offering different packages. For the most part, you need to have an existing insurance policy for home, condo, renters, or auto insurance that covers between $250,000 to $350,000 in liability expenses before you can purchase an umbrella policy. 

What Does Umbrella Insurance Cover?

It’s important to note that Umbrella Insurance has some key similarities to the personal liability aspect of your homeowner’s insurance, condo insurance, car insurance, or renters insurance. The only difference is that it is used when you max out these insurance policies. The following situations are typically covered by Umbrella Insurance:

Your Dog Bites Someone 

Homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bites, but if you are sued for an amount that exceeds your insurance, then the Umbrella Insurance policy comes into play. The expenses covered may include medical bills and pain and suffering.

You Accidentally Injure Someone

Umbrella Insurance will come in if your home or auto insurance is exceeded in cases where you or your family member accidentally injure someone. For instance, when your child accidentally injures a friend while playing. If you are sued and the liability damages exceed the insured amount, then Umbrella Insurance will help.

You Are Responsible for a Serious Boating or Automotive Accident 

Boating or auto accident bills can come out to be insane amounts, especially in cases where you are responsible for injuries to multiple people. Here, your insurance policy will start by covering the expenses, and once it is maxed out, the Umbrella Insurance will come in.

Slander Damage or Personal Defamation Claims 

This may include a lawsuit filed because of a post you made on social media. If it exceeds your PLI, then the Umbrella Insurance will settle the costs.

What Umbrella Insurance Won’t Cover

Just like there are limits to your personal insurance, there are limits to your Umbrella Insurance. Below are some of the losses typically not covered by Umbrella Insurance:

  • Criminal acts
  • Contracts
  • Intentional acts of injury
  • Damages of nuclear radiation, war, or terrorism
  • Damage to your personal property
  • A lawsuit where you are responsible for infecting someone with an infectious disease

Who Needs Umbrella Insurance?

Now that you understand Umbrella Insurance, who needs this policy? Below are some of the factors that might warrant a need for Umbrella Insurance:

  • People with high net worths
  • Celebrities
  • Investors in real estate
  • Enthusiasts of extreme sports or dangerous hobbies
  • Dog owners or exotic pet owners

How Much Does Umbrella Insurance Cost?

Umbrella insurance costs will, for the most part, be influenced by the amount of insurance you purchase. You should note that most insurers have a minimum limit of about $1 million, with the option of raising this amount.

The Takeaway

Now that you have a rough idea of Umbrella Insurance, you can decide whether you need it or not. Remember, accidents and disasters are unpredictable, and you never know when you will find yourself facing a lawsuit.

Defective Vehicle Airbags and the Biggest Vehicle Recall in the US

An airbag is a standard safety feature integrated into all vehicles. It is designed to protect occupants from hitting objects inside or outside of the car in a collision. However, airbags can become deadly when defective, which is quite ironic since they are designed as a safety feature.

One of the biggest motor vehicle recalls in the US involved airbags. The recall, which has affected over 19 major motor vehicle manufacturers, still continues. The exploding Takata airbags have been responsible for 19 deaths and more than 400 injuries. 

The Cause of the Defect

But, why are these airbags exploding? It all boils down to the design of these faulty parts. Standard airbags have a propellant comprising a metal cartridge.

The faulty airbags had ammonium nitrate as the propellant and had no chemical drying agent. Due to this defective feature, upon long-term exposure to heat and humidity, the airbag housing is likely to explode in a crash and send pieces of the metal cartridge flying.

The Recall

Despite the defective airbags being rare, given they were spread out in vehicles manufactured over 20 years, they were extremely dangerous. Due to their danger, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has recalled over 67 million airbags in more than 42 million vehicles as of September 2021.

The agency has conducted the recall in various stages. Vehicles are recalled based on risk and year of manufacture, where 2002 to 2015 were when most defective airbags were manufactured.

What’s more, the agency uses a 12 level strategy, where areas with the highest heat and humidity and concentration of reported cases are prioritized.

Cars affected by the recall include the 2001-2003 Honda and Acura models and the 2006 Ford Ranger and Mazda B-series. What’s more, an investigation by the New York Times showed that Takata knew of the defects from as early as 2000.

Consequently, the US Dept. of Justice charged three Takata executives with forging test data to cover the defects. The executives eventually settled the case and the company was fined $1 billion, causing it to file for bankruptcy, after which Key Safety Systems purchased it.

The most recent defective airbag incident happened on Jan 8, 2022, in South Carolina, where the driver was killed in a 2002 Honda Accord. The car was not registered to the owner and had changed ownership several times over the years.

According to Honda, the vehicle was recalled in April 2011, and they had attempted to inform the owner of the recall more than 100 times with no response. Drivers can check whether their vehicle has been recalled by visiting the NHTSA website and typing in their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

What to Do if Your Vehicle Is Recalled

If your vehicle is on the recall list, the manufacturer is legally required to repair it for free. You can continue driving it as you wait for the repair. However, 2001-2003 Honda/Acura and 2006 Ford/Mazda trucks are on the stop-driving order, meaning you should contact your dealership immediately.

If your dealership refuses to fix the car, you should contact NHTSA as soon as possible with information regarding the dealership and the staff member you interacted with. However, you should not ask your dealership to disable the airbag since it can still offer protection in an accident.

Best Way to Stay Healthy During Long Weeks at the Office

Stay Healthy

Putting in extra hours at work can be taxing on the body and with the increased effort into your job, it’s too easy to put your health on the back burner. You don’t have to sacrifice your health. It requires putting in a little extra effort, but when you do, you’ll maintain your wellness to keep you on track while prioritizing your physical health. Read on for tips on how you can keep up with your healthy lifestyle when you’re putting in more hours in the office.

Take Frequent Physical Breaks

Sitting down at your desk for hours upon end is not good for the body. Staying inactive for too long can leave your body feeling tense, tight, and painful. “Too often, I’m so engrossed in my work that I forget to move around. When I finally do stand up, I can feel the consequences,” admits Natália Sadowski, Director of Aesthetics at Nourishing Biologicals.

As you’re working, set up an alert to go off every 1-2 hours to remind you to stand up and move around. Do some light stretching, take a walk around the office, or go for a stroll outside. Natália Sadowski relies on her reminders throughout the day. “My smartwatch is set up to remind me to stand up every hour. When the notification goes off, I stand up and take a walk around the block. It takes 5–10 minutes and it’s definitely worth it.”

Prepare Meals and Snacks

When you spend so much of your week at the office, convenience often takes over your food choices. You grab a snack from the vending machine or order food from a nearby restaurant. While this is great now and then, when you practice this type of eating schedule continuously, it can affect your diet. Instead, prepare any meals or snacks for your week so you can more easily stay on track.

Meal prepping for breakfast or lunch can sound daunting, but it’s worth it and will make your day much easier – without having to feel redundant. Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDCES, author of Belly Fat Diet for Dummies, uses a trick with her clients to combat menu fatigue. “I have my clients write down their favorite meal options on sticky notes, then place those sticky notes on a calendar to build out their menu for the week. Then, all they need to do is rotate the sticky notes from week to week.” Not only does this practice avoid repetition, but it eliminates decision fatigue, which can be exhausting in and of itself.

When it comes to snacks, stock up your office with nutritious snacks you can grab on the go. Avoid sugary snacks or candies since those foods are less likely to satisfy your hunger. Stock up on crackers, nuts (like almonds), or pretzels. Don’t feel compelled to only bring snacks that can be kept dry. Prepare fresh snacks too like baby carrots or berries to leave in a refrigerator.

Brandon Adcock, Co-Founder and CEO has made a name for himself at Nugenix for his snack habits. “My coworkers tease me for keeping a pantry full of snacks at my desk. But hey, I’m always prepared if I need some fuel to keep my going when things get busy.”

Maintain Your Exercise Routine

Working more hours usually means you have less time for other activities, such as your workout routine. Continue to maintain your current routine as much as possible to keep up with your health. It can require some flexibility with your schedule, but be open to making whatever changes are necessary to ensure your exercise routine doesn’t fall to the wayside.

“During weeks when work gets hectic, I have to switch up my workout routine,” Steven Vigilante, the Head of New Business Development at OLIPOP shares. “If I can’t make it to my yoga class after work, I’ll do a routine at home before bed. If I’m not able to get in my daily walk during lunch, I’ll wake up early the next day to get it in before work. It takes some flexibility to rearrange my schedule, but if I don’t prioritize it, my body is all out of whack.”

Avoid Too Much Caffeine or Sugary Drinks

Selecting the right beverages is essential for a healthy lifestyle, as the choices we make impact our overall well-being. Understanding the composition of your drinks, including potential additives like aspartame, is crucial. Oobli provides beverage that don’t have aspartame on it. 

When pushing through a busy work week, people tend to load up on caffeine to keep them going. But, that practice can have an adverse effect. Drinking too much caffeine can leave you feeling jittery and distracted while consuming too many sugary drinks can cause you to crash.

Co-Founder of TalentSmart, Dr. Travis Bradberry explains the effect of too much caffeine. “Coming off caffeine reduces your cognitive performance and has a negative impact on your mood. The only way to get back to normal is to drink caffeine, and when you do drink it, you feel like it’s taking you to new heights. In reality, the caffeine is just taking your performance back to normal for a short period.”

Prioritize Your Sleep

To maintain a healthy lifestyle, the most important thing you can do for your body is to get enough sleep each night. It is recommended that you get at least 8 hours of sleep each night to avoid fatigue and a lack of concentration and productivity. Working extra hours means you have to make the most out of the time you have, and a lack of sleep prevents you from having the energy to take on a packed day. So, as much as it might take some rearranging, it’s important to make your sleep a priority.

Stephanie Venn-Watson, CEO of Seraphina Therapeutics, learned the hard way that she needed to get more sleep. “I used to try to do it all when my work schedule was packed: workout, meet up with friends, go to events, and attend book club. Naturally, my sleep schedule was affected. I would only get about 5–6 hours of sleep each night. After a while, it really took a toll on my body. As much as I wanted to do it all when work was more demanded, I knew I couldn’t. I had to prioritize my sleep which meant reorganizing how I spent my downtime.”

Working too much can be taxing, but if it’s not something you have to do often, you can learn how to manage the time. Maintaining your health while working long hours takes some flexibility and planning. With the right tools, you’ll be able to work hard at keeping your lifestyle healthy while performing your job well. 

Looking for Sex Cams Reviews? Here are the Top Sites to Check Out

love

Technology has revolutionized every type of media that we consume, and that absolutely includes porn. Not many people consume porn by watching DVDs anymore. Before, people bought VHS and Beta tapes. 

At one point, magazines and special cinemas were the primary sources of adult entertainment. Even earlier than that – a medium that has survived the times – people used to write pornographic books. This sort of thing has probably existed for as long as human beings have! 

Today, it’d be a nearly impossible task to find an adult who hasn’t at least heard of porn sites. But even websites are currently being outpaced by cam sites. This is probably because cam sites feel more interactive and intimate, making the experience a lot more personal.

A lot of cam sites offer interaction between the viewer and the model. A little involvement really does it for people! So here are the top sex cam review sites to help point you in the right direction.

couple1. ReadySetCam

ReadySetCam not only has a wide selection of reviews of cam sites, but they also have a ton of sex cam-related articles. Aspiring models, or interested fans, would probably get lost on this website. With the number of comments most articles get, it also seems to have a healthy, thriving community, so there are always other people to turn to if you’re out of recommendations. You’ll always find interesting articles to read. 

2. Adult Cam Review

Adult Cam Review is a website that’s all about the sex cam viewer. If ReadySetCam is more geared towards the model, Adult Cam Review is totally geared towards you as a viewer. Its main focus is helping you get the most out of each cam site and knowing which cam sites are worth it and which ones are milking you for all you’re worth. They have articles on how to get started as a new viewer, the best overall sites, as well as best sites by interest. Adult Cam Review says they want to point you in the right direction, so they’re definitely worth checking out. 

3. Adult Cam Reviewer

Adult Cam Reviewer has reviewed a wide variety of cam sites. They claim that they take into consideration the sex cam website’s special features, pricing, model selection, the overall security of the site, as well as quality. Their own website seems to be very well put together and easy to navigate.  

4. Adult-Cam-Sites

The people at Adult-Cam-Sites seem like they fully understand being in the position of a regular sex cam viewer wanting something new and sexy to watch. They claim to have created this website in order to expose which sex cam sites are real, and which ones aren’t. Since sex cams have become a multi-million dollar industry, there are an unbelievable amount of fake cam sites and scams. Adult-Cam-Sites has been in operation for a few years and they’ve created a pretty big selection of honest reviews, as well as some tips and tricks to help keep you and your credit card safe. 

5. The Cam Dude

The Cam Dude is a website run by – you guessed it! – a dude that knows a lot about cam sites, and a couple of other things. As soon as you go on this site, you’ll see a pretty sizable selection of cam sites, all grouped into categories and ranked. The Cam Dude also has other sections on his website, such as a blog and a porn games section. Check those out if you’re interested. 

6. Sexcamsitesreviews

The founder of this site, Manny, blogs about his thoughts on various sex cam websites. He has plenty of experience under his belt browsing cam sites, and he says he wants to help out the newbies! Manny claims to know a lot of insider details on how sex cams work and which ones give you the most bang for your buck. 

7. BestWebcamSites

BestWebcamSites claims to be a professional sex cam review website, committed to staying up-to-date with everything sex cam-related. They claim that it’s important to them to interact with and answer their readers’ questions, as generic or obscure as they might be. They have a large selection of reviews, tailored to your own personal tastes. 

8. Sex-Cam-Reviews

Sex-Cam-Reviews have got an absolutely huge selection of cam site reviews of all different categories. As a general rule, all of the websites in their top 10 are free to join, so it seems to be important to them that you can have some fun without pulling out your wallet straight away. 

9. Adult Reviews

Adult Reviews isn’t a website primarily focused on sex cams. They rank and rate a variety of adult entertainment channels, such as porn websites and categories. Their slogan is “Your guide to better porn”. Their big selection of cam site reviews indicates that they intend to deliver on that promise! 

10. The Porn Dude

If you’ve ever decided to get a recommendation on anything relating to porn, you’ve probably come across the Porn Dude’s website. This guy has an absolutely massive selection of anything and everything pornographic. It would be shocking if he didn’t have a cam site selection, but naturally, he does. If you’re interested in anything else porn-related, there are a myriad of other websites you can look at while you’re there. So have fun!  

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Finding the best sex cam website will depend on the kind of experience you’re looking for. If you’re unsure of your needs as a viewer, then exploring various reviews can help you find what you’re looking for. 

These platforms can also be difficult to navigate. If you were to get into them now, you’d have next to no idea where to start. What sites offer the best value for your money? What sites offer the kind of models or actions that you prefer to see? How much can you see free of charge? It can all be very confusing, so it’s best to listen to the pros. You can check out these sex cam review sites that’ll help get you started. 

What Is The Connection Between Mental Health and Addiction?

Mental Health Matters

Those with a mental health issue are twice as likely as those without to develop an addiction. Mental health and addiction are inextricably linked. Substance abuse can worsen mental health problems. There are many types of mental health disorders, and each can affect a person’s life differently.

What is The Connection Between Mental Health and Addiction

What is The Connection Between Mental Health and Addiction (Image Credit Pexels)

Some mental health disorders can make a person feel anxious or depressed, while others may cause a person to act out in violent or self-destructive ways. To effectively deal with the issue, a Drug & Alcohol Rehab has to treat both the addiction and the underlying mental health disorder. To understand the connection, read on.

How Does a Mental Health Issue Affect One’s Life?

Mental health includes emotional, psychological and social well-being. A person’s mental health can be affected by various factors, concerning but not limited to:

  • Stressful life events such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or job loss
  • Traumatic experiences such as abuse or violence
  • Having a family history of mental illness
  • Biological factors such as a chemical imbalance in the brain

Mental health disorders can cause a person to feel hopeless, worthless, and helpless. They may also lead to losing interest in activities once enjoyed. In some cases, mental health disorders can even cause a person to have thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

The brain is a complex organ, and when something is not working correctly, it can have a ripple effect throughout the entire body. Understand that mental health disorders are real, severe medical conditions that require treatment from qualified professionals.

How Do Mental Health Issues Lead to Addiction?

People with mental health disorders often turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. They may try to numb the mental illness’s pain or escape the negative feelings they are experiencing.

Unfortunately, this only leads to a downward spiral as the addiction takes over and worsens the mental health disorder. It becomes a vicious cycle difficult to break free from without professional help.

Treating the addiction without addressing the underlying mental health disorder is not enough. It leads to relapse, as the person is still not dealing with the root problem. It takes therapy, medication, and a lot of hard work to overcome an addiction and a mental health disorder.

How Does Addiction Lead to Mental Health Disorders

Addiction is the continued use of a substance or activity despite adverse consequences. It changes the brain in ways that lead to cravings, making it difficult to control impulses. Over time, addiction can lead to problems with mental health, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Paranoia
  • Psychosis

Addiction can also worsen pre-existing mental health disorders. The disorders kick in when a person attempts to quit using, experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Also, addiction’s hopelessness, shame, and guilt can lead to suicidal thoughts or behaviors. The good news is that it is possible to overcome addiction and mental health disorders with treatment.

What Can Be Done To Help?

man in grey

Image Credit Pexels

If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health disorder and addiction, help is available. Reach out for professional help as soon as possible. Because it’s not easy to tell where one problem starts and the other ends, it’s best to seek treatment from a facility that specializes in addiction and mental health disorders. Here are some other things you can do:

Educate Yourself

When you understand the connection between mental health and addiction, it is easier to see how they feed off each other. The more you know about the issue, the better equipped you will be to help your loved one. For instance, you’ll learn how to help the person when a negative situation occurs or if they start to exhibit signs of relapse.

Offer Support

Recovery is a long and challenging journey. Show the person that you are there for them every step. Be patient and understanding, and never give up on them. Sometimes, they act out or make mistakes, but that doesn’t mean they are not worth fighting for. Focus on their positive qualities and remind them of their worth.

Encourage Treatment

Treatment is essential for overcoming addiction and mental health disorders. It may be challenging to convince your loved one to seek help, but do not hesitate to try. If they are not ready to seek treatment, you can still offer support and be there for them when they are ready to take that step. To help them see they need treatment:

  • Show them how the problems have affected their quality of life
  • Dont bail them out of the issues caused by their addiction
  • Encourage them to talk to a therapist or counselor

You can also look into treatment options and facilities yourself, preparing you for when they are ready to seek help. Talk and discuss the available options together, and let them know you will support them.

Take Care of Yourself

Caring for someone with an addiction and mental health disorder is quite challenging. You never know what to expect, affecting your mental and emotional health. You’re always on edge, worrying about the person and their next move. Make sure to:

  • Get enough sleep
  • Eat a balanced diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Talk to someone about what you’re going through
  • Join a support group for caregivers
  • Take breaks and vacations when you can

You cannot pour from an empty cup. If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to care for your loved one.

What Happens When Both Issues Are Treated?

When both addiction and mental health disorders are treated, it is possible to achieve long-term recovery. It requires hard work and dedication, but it is worth it. In treatment, the person will:

  • Learn about the connection between mental health and addiction
  • Identify the underlying causes of the disorders
  • Develop healthy coping skills
  • Build a support system
  • Create a relapse prevention plan

Don’t Give Up on Your Loved One

The treatment gives your loved ones the tools they need to overcome disorders and live a happy and healthy life. It restores your relationship, improves communication, and helps you both grow. Take one step at a time, and never give up on your loved one.

3 Things To Help You Relax After a Long Day

Relaxing after long day

After a busy day, it’s understandable that you want to just relax. In fact, you may not really feel like doing anything at all. However, simply plopping down and zoning out may not actually be the best way to de-stress. Even when you’ve given yourself permission to sit around, you may very well just keep on stressing out. When that happens, you’re not really getting the benefits of relaxation that you need to be getting in the time that you have to yourself. Instead of just tuning out, make a conscious effort to retune your frame of mind. Here are some of the best ways to effectively relax when you’ve reached the end of your workday.

1. Meditate

Five to ten minutes of meditation can make a big difference in how you’re feeling. Focused breathing exercises can quell anxiety and help you feel more grounded. In addition to breathwork, stretching can focus your attention to your body and physical presence which can steer it away from residual internal thought processes filled with snippets of the days’ events and miscellaneous worries.

Use aromatherapy to simulate parts of your brain that play a role in regulating your mood. Choose all-natural products, and consider trying a variety of different scents. A diffuser with Young Living Essential Oils can transform the ambience of your home environment and evoke an almost immediate change in your mood.

Redirecting your energy when you get home can get you more meaningfully engaged in the act of relaxing. In turn, enhancing the quality of the time that you spend relaxing will maximize the stress-relieving benefits that you get from giving yourself a break.

2. Shower

Showering soon after you get home can help you create instant calm. It is a great way to channel your energy towards yourself rather than away from the day that you’re putting behind you. Taking off everything that you’re wearing and stepping into the water has psychological significance. It’s symbolic of stripping and washing the day away from yourself. In this sense, incorporating showering into your post-work routine helps you transition into the next phase of your day with a different outlook.

Showering can also be an opportunity to work some aromatherapy into your evening. You can use scented bath products, but make sure that they’re made from all-natural ingredients. Overly fragranced products with harsh perfumes and other chemical components can irritate your skin. Alternatively you can use fragrance-free all natural products and add small amounts of scented oils that are safe for topical use.

Another great benefit of hopping into the shower after work is that it can soothe achy muscles. If you typically face your shower head, try facing the opposite direction for most of your shower. Directing the water to your chest can make your breath feel heavy. When you face away from your shower, you can direct the water to your neck and upper back around your shoulders, which are the parts of your body that tend to get most tense over the course of a stressful day.

3. Eat Mindfully

A nutritious meal is a great way to take care of yourself. Instead of reaching for the easiest thing to heat up, put some thought into what you’re going to fix for yourself so you’ll have a healthy meal solution ready to go. Getting into the habit of meal prep and planning your main meals a day or two ahead prep can have an amazingly positive effect on how well you eat when you get home from a busy day.

You’ll feel good about knowing that you’re fueling your body with the nourishment that it needs. Furthermore, it will be easier for you to steer clear of stress eating habits or overindulging in comfort foods that don’t have any substantive nutritional value. Eating well and avoiding ultra processed ingredients is great for your digestion, and improving digestion can support your mental wellness.

It’s important to remember that relaxing won’t always come as naturally to you as you might expect it to. This is particularly true when you’re stressed out. In fact, being exceptionally worn down may not make it easier to wind down. Instead, feeling extra fatigued can compound stress and make your inner dialog more negative than usual. It might also be harder for you to regulate your emotions. Going on autopilot to relax won’t necessarily help you achieve relaxation. In contrast, deliberate and guided steps will make you better able to make your way towards a state of calm.