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Straits Times
7 days ago
- Health
- Straits Times
Do regular facials actually improve your skin?
Glowing skin is a major and immediate benefit of getting a facial. But that perk tends to fade after a few days or weeks. NEW YORK – Smoother skin, smaller pores, better hydration – these are just a few of the many benefits facials claim to offer . And who is not relaxed after being horizontal for an hour while someone massages his or her fac e? Glowing skin is a major and immediate benefit of getting a facial. But the perk tends to fade after a few days or weeks. And aestheticians will often say that if you want longer-term improvements, such as fewer wrinkles, less acne or an even skin tone, you will need to get facials regularly. Is that true? T hree dermatologists weigh in. What are the benefits? Facials come in many forms, said Dr Susan Massick, a dermatologist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Standard ones incorporate some type of deep cleansing, exfoliating, moisturising, massaging and sometimes 'extraction', or squeezing the gunk out of your pores, she said. They are also often tailored to address specific skin issues such as acne, dullness or discolouration, she added. You can get facials at medical spas or salons, and dermatology offices. When your skin is cleansed, massaged and exfoliated, dead skin cells are removed from the outermost layer of the skin called the epidermis, said Dr Helen He, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. This speeds up the skin's cell turnover rate, which may help brighten your complexion, smooth its texture and shrink pores, she added. The skin is also typically massaged during the cleansing, moisturising and serum application steps. This can boost circulation and lymphatic drainage, Dr He said, which may minimise puffiness. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore $3b money laundering case: MinLaw acts against 4 law firms, 1 lawyer over seized properties Asia China's economy grows 5.3% in first half of 2025, momentum slowing amid trade tensions Business 'Some cannot source outside China': S'pore firms' challenges and support needed amid US tariffs Multimedia From local to global: What made top news in Singapore over the last 180 years? Singapore Turning tragedy into advocacy: Woman finds new purpose after paralysis Opinion Sumiko at 61: Everything goes south when you age, changing your face from a triangle to a rectangle Sport Poor water quality off Sentosa delays World Aquatics C'ship open water swimming event by a day Singapore HSA intensifies crackdown on vapes; young suspected Kpod peddlers nabbed in Bishan, Yishun Beyond skincare , regular facials can help you to unwind and de-stress, said Dr Basia Michalski-McNeely, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis. 'It's an hour where you don't have any interruptions, and it's just focused on wellness and taking care of yourself,' she said. Will regular facials extend those effects? Generally, the benefits of a single facial are short-lived, lasting a few days to a couple of weeks, Dr Michalski-McNeely said. This is because the epidermis naturally renews about every month, Dr He said. When this happens, dead skin cells build up and can clog pores, potentially leading to acne and dull skin, she explained. A good skincare routine can address this build-up, but getting facials regularly – every four to eight weeks, for instance – can s upport healthy skin cell turnover, which may enhance collagen production, leading to more firmness and elasticity in the long run, Dr He said. Regular facials that are tailored to your skin may also offer extended benefits, Dr Massick said. If you are prone to acne, you might get one that incorporates extraction. If you have dry skin, you might seek extra moisturising steps. Still, there are some skin qualities that regular facials may not improve. People with deep wrinkles or skin sagging, for instance, may not get as many skin-smoothing or tightening benefits from facials alone, Dr He said. Sometimes, facials incorporate treatments such as chemical peels or LED light therapy, which, when done regularly, can bring more 'lasting results' than traditional facials, such as lightening dark spots or treating acne, Dr Massick said. What else should you consider? Regular facials are safe for most people, Dr Massick said, though she recommended avoiding them if you have an active skin infection – such as cold sores or shingles – or facial wounds that are still healing. She also recommended being cautious of facials or consulting a doctor if you have rosacea, psoriasis, eczema or sensitive skin. Dr Michalski-McNeely said she does not discourage people from getting facials, but she also does not think they are necessary for those with a good, consistent skincare routine. A basic one includes cleansing, moisturising and wearing sunscreen of at least SPF 30 daily, Dr Massick said. Dr Michalski-McNeely also suggested incorporating an over-the-counter retinol or a prescription retinoid. It is a more effective and longer-lasting option for increasing skin cell turnover, improving collagen production and brightening the skin. This, with a good skincare regimen, is far more effective for anti-ageing than facials alone, Dr Massick said. But facials can complement these habits, she added. Cosmetic procedures such as Botox, microneedling or laser resurfacing treatments can also offer longer-term benefits than facials, such as boosting collagen, smoothing fine lines and minimising the appearance of acne scars and dark spots, Dr Michalski-McNeely added. But these can be expensive too and might require a visit to a dermatologist, which she recommended. If you get a facial at a medical spa or salon, Dr Massick suggested seeking out a licensed and experienced aesthetician – and asking about the products he or she uses, the procedure and what to expect afterwards. Always tell your aesthetician if you are allergic to fragrances or other ingredients that may be in skincare products. Facials can be 'a fun and relaxing treat', Dr Massick said, just make sure you set appropriate expectations and do not rely on them as your sole source of skincare. NYTIMES
New York Post
08-07-2025
- Climate
- New York Post
UV umbrellas are the coolest trend in sun protection — how to pick the best ones to beat the heat
It kept you dry in December — now it might be the secret to surviving July. As temperatures soar, a growing number of Americans are getting hip to what much of the world already knows: Umbrellas aren't just for rain. 'I don't care how cute my hat is, I don't care if I have a fan, it's not going to work,' Amber Ferguson (@girlwithdrive) said in a recent TikTok. 'The only thing that's going to keep me from literally melting out here is my umbrella.' Advertisement 5 Umbrellas can provide an extra layer of protection against the sun's harmful rays. Paige Kahn/NY Post Turns out, that's exactly why they were invented more than 4,000 years ago. In fact, umbrellas were the primary method Americans used to shield themselves from the sun until the 20th century, when sunscreen, hats and other protective gear took over, according to Encyclopedia Britannica. Nowadays, carrying an umbrella — or parasol, as it's often called when used for sun protection — is common across large parts of East and Southeast Asia, including China, Japan, South Korea and Thailand. Advertisement 'In these countries, it is common to see individuals of all ages carrying umbrellas on sunny days, reflecting a strong cultural emphasis on sun protection for both health and aesthetic reasons, such as prevention of sunspots, tanning and premature aging,' Dr. Helen He, co-director of Mount Sinai-Clinique Healthy Skin Dermatology Center, told The Post. 'When it comes to sun protection, not all umbrellas are created equal.' Dr. Helen He People use umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, which in moderation help with vitamin D production. But overexposure can lead to sunburn, skin damage, premature aging and even skin cancer. Umbrellas can also block infrared radiation — the part of sunlight that makes you feel hot. Advertisement 5 In other parts of the world, like East and Southeast Asia, parasols are a summertime staple. Getty Images But, He cautioned, 'when it comes to sun protection, not all umbrellas are created equal.' 'The best umbrellas are UV umbrellas, which are usually made of tightly woven fabrics and are treated with special UV-resistant coatings that absorb or reflect solar radiation,' explained He, who said she carries one everywhere she goes. Advertisement While sunscreens have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating to indicate how well they'll protect you from getting a sunburn, umbrellas (and clothing) use an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) to measure their effectiveness against UV radiation. 'Look for umbrellas that have UPF 50+, which will block over 50% of UV rays,' He recommended. Wider umbrella canopies provide more coverage, and darker fabrics absorb more solar radiation — blocking both harmful UV rays and heat from reaching your skin, she said. There's real science behind this. 5 In general, light-colored umbrellas offer less sun protection than darker ones. Stefano Giovannini A 2013 study by Emory School of Medicine researchers tested 23 handheld umbrellas and found they protected participants' skin from an average of 77% of UV damage. Black umbrellas performed best, blocking at least 90% of UV rays, while lighter colors, especially white, offered less protection. Advertisement 'If you want a colorful umbrella, I highly recommend one with a black or reflective silver coating inside or outside,' He advised. But shade alone isn't a perfect shield. 'While the umbrella is very effective for providing protection against direct overhead UV rays, it does not provide complete coverage,' He said. UV radiation can still reflect off surfaces like concrete, water, and sand, exposing your skin even when you're under an umbrella. Advertisement 5 A growing number of Americans are turning to umbrellas for sun protection. Robert Miller Plus, there will inevitably be moments outdoors when you have to put your umbrella away — whether you're taking photos, carrying items or doing activities that require both hands. 'It is important that you are always using backup sun protection to ensure that you are still covered during those times, especially if they are prolonged,' He said. For this reason, He recommends that even if you're carrying a sun umbrella, you should still apply sunscreen, wear sun-protective clothing and practice other sun-safe behaviors like seeking shade and avoiding peak sun hours between 10 am and 3 pm. Advertisement 5 Umbrellas can make you feel significantly cooler on a sunny day by providing shade and blocking direct sunlight. Paige Kahn/NY Post 'I often remind my patients, 'If you see the sun, the sun sees you,'' she said. When shopping for sun-protective clothing, remember that UPF ratings aren't limited to umbrellas. We're Tracking Prime Day Live! Unlock exclusive NYP codes and real-time deals on everyday must-haves. See Your Deals Advertisement 'Sun protective clothing, hats, swimsuits and accessories with UPF 50+ will boost your overall defense against UV exposure and are a great investment for summer months, especially if you will be spending a lot of time outdoors or at the beach,' He said. When it comes to sunscreen, she said many people don't apply often enough — or forget to do it altogether. 'A good rule of thumb is to use a nickel-sized amount on the face and about a shot glass amount on the body,' He said. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you're swimming or sweating. For people with darker skin tones or those prone to hyperpigmentation or melasma, He recommends using a tinted mineral sunscreen. 'This protects not only against UV light but also visible light, which is a major trigger for hyperpigmentation,' she explained.
CNA
04-07-2025
- Health
- CNA
Do regular facials actually improve your skin over time or are results just temporary?
Smoother skin, smaller pores, better hydration – these are just a few of the many benefits facials can offer. And who isn't relaxed after being horizontal for an hour while someone massages your face and tends to your pores? Glowing skin is a major and immediate benefit of getting a facial. But that perk tends to fade after a few days or weeks. And aestheticians will often say that if you want longer-term improvements, like fewer wrinkles, less acne or an even skin tone, you'll need to get facials regularly. Is that true? We asked three dermatologists to weigh in. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Facials come in many forms, said Dr Susan Massick, a dermatologist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Standard ones incorporate some type of deep cleansing, exfoliating, moisturising, massaging and sometimes 'extraction,' or squeezing the gunk out of your pores, she said. They're also often tailored to address specific skin issues like acne, dullness or discoloration, she added. You can get facials at medical spas or salons, and at dermatology offices. When your skin is cleansed, massaged and exfoliated, dead skin cells are removed from the outermost layer of your skin called the epidermis, said Dr Helen He, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. This speeds up the skin's cell turnover rate, which may help brighten your complexion, smooth its texture and shrink your pores, she said. The skin is also typically massaged during the cleansing, moisturising and serum application steps. This can boost circulation and lymphatic drainage, Dr He said, which may minimise puffiness. Beyond skin care, regular facials can help you to unwind and de-stress, said Dr Basia Michalski-McNeely, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis. 'It's an hour where you don't have any interruptions, and it's just focused on wellness and taking care of yourself,' she said. WILL REGULAR FACIALS EXTEND THOSE EFFECTS? Generally, the benefits of a single facial are short-lived, lasting a few days to a couple of weeks, Dr Michalski-McNeely said. This is because the epidermis naturally renews about every month, Dr He said. When this happens, dead skin cells build up and can clog your pores, potentially leading to acne and dull skin, she explained. A good skin care routine can address this buildup, but getting facials regularly – every four to eight weeks, for instance – can continuously support healthy skin cell turnover, which may enhance collagen production, leading to more firmness and elasticity in the long-term, Dr He said. Regular facials that are 'tailored to you and your skin' may also offer extended benefits, Dr Massick said. If you're acne prone, you might get one that incorporates extraction; if you have dry skin, you might seek extra moisturising steps. Still, there are some skin qualities that regular facials may not improve. People with deep wrinkles or skin sagging, for instance, may not get as many skin-smoothing or tightening benefits from facials alone, Dr He said. Sometimes, facials incorporate treatments like chemical peels or LED light therapy, which, when done regularly, can bring more 'lasting results' than traditional facials, such as lightening dark spots or treating acne, Dr Massick said. WHAT ELSE SHOULD I CONSIDER? Regular facials are safe for most people, Dr Massick said, though she recommended avoiding them if you have an active skin infection (like cold sores or shingles) or facial wounds that are still healing. She also recommended being cautious of facials (or consulting a doctor first) if you have rosacea, psoriasis, eczema or sensitive skin. Facials can also be pricey, costing around US$100 or more in some areas. Dr Michalski-McNeely said she doesn't discourage people from getting facials, but she also doesn't think they're necessary for those with a good, consistent skin care routine. A basic one includes cleansing, moisturising and wearing sunscreen of at least SPF 30 daily, Dr Massick said. Dr Michalski-McNeely also suggested incorporating an over-the-counter retinol or a prescription retinoid – it's a more effective and longer-lasting option for increasing skin cell turnover, improving collagen production and brightening the skin. This, along with a good skin care regimen, is far more effective for anti-ageing than facials alone, Dr Massick said. But facials can complement these habits, she added. Cosmetic procedures like Botox, microneedling or laser resurfacing treatments can also offer longer-term benefits than facials, such as boosting collagen, smoothing fine lines and minimising the appearance of acne scars and dark spots, Dr Michalski-McNeely added. But these can be expensive, too, and might require a visit to a dermatologist, which Dr Michalski-McNeely recommended. If you get a facial at a medical spa or salon, Dr Massick suggested seeking out a licensed and experienced aesthetician – and asking about the products they use, the procedure and what to expect afterward. Always tell your aesthetician if you're allergic to fragrances or other ingredients that may be in skin care products. Facials can be 'a fun and relaxing treat,' Dr Massick said, just make sure you set 'appropriate expectations' – and don't rely on them as your sole source of skin care.
New York Post
09-05-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Is your job killing you? All the ways overworking can destroy your health — and what you can do about it
Burning the midnight oil may fatten your paycheck, but your health could be paying the price. In 2024, Gallup found that the average full-time worker in the US clocked 42.9 hours a week. But millions are logging far more, and the toll is greater than just burnout. At one Midwestern investment bank, junior employees were allegedly forced to endure grueling 20-hour days — a grind so extreme it sent at least two to the hospital, including one with a failed pancreas. 12 Is your job destroying your health? Several doctors broke down the ways overworking can hurt you — and how you can save yourself. NY Post They're not alone. In recent years, several cases have emerged in which employees died after being pushed to work 100 hours a week or more, a troubling trend that's prompted some companies to rethink their breakneck expectations. Just last year, a 35-year-old Bank of America investment banker named Leo Lukenas III died of a blood clot while job-hunting, bogged down by the stress of his 100+ hour weeks. The Post consulted seven health experts to find out what spending 60, 70 or even 80+ hours a week behind your desk can do to your body if you're not careful. Spoiler alert: It's not pretty. Problem #1 : Aging skin, acne and even skin cancer Your skin is your largest organ, and it's also one of the first to suffer when you work yourself to the bone. 'Working long hours over an extended period is associated with sleep deprivation and chronic stress, both of which are known to have adverse effects on skin health, quality and appearance,' Dr. Helen He, co-director of Mount Sinai-Clinique Healthy Skin Dermatology Center, told The Post. 'These changes will accelerate the skin aging process, weaken the immune system and disrupt the skin barrier, making the skin more sensitive and more vulnerable to inflammation and infection,' He said. 12 Elevated cortisol levels can weaken the skin's ability to self-repair. vladimirfloyd – Expect wrinkles, swelling or redness around the eyes, dark circles, drooping eyelids, and sagging around the mouth. It can also be a trigger for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Plus, elevated cortisol can boost sebum production, clogging pores and leading to breakouts and cystic acne. And if your office is lit by flickering fluorescent lights, it's not just annoying — it could be damaging. 'Many fluorescent lights will emit small amounts of UV radiation, or it can leak out,' Dr. Ross Levy, chief of dermatology at Northwell Northern Westchester Hospital Center, told The Post. 'UV is a major cause of aging of the skin as well as being a major contributor to skin cancer.' And then there's blue light — the kind emitted by LED bulbs and electronic screens like your phone, tablet or computer. 12 The sun can hurt your skin, but so can artificial sources of light. weedezign – '[This] has recently been recognized to damage DNA and promote oxidative stress, worsening hyperpigmentation and accelerating skin aging, especially in those with darker skin types,' He said. And while too much sun exposure is bad, a complete lack of it from being inside all day can also lead to vitamin D deficiency, leaving your skin looking dull and lackluster. How to fix it: Get enough sleep. Stay hydrated. Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, fermented foods, and fish. Exercise regularly. Wear tinted mineral sunscreen with iron oxides, even inside. Incorporate tretinoin, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C into your skincare routine, along with the occasional facial or chemical peel. Get outside. 12 Overworking can lead to chronic stress, which can trigger a cascade of health problems. – Problem #2: Vision issues The hours you spend staring at your computer screen bathed in blue light is affecting your eyes, too. 'With prolonged viewing of screens, patients can begin to suffer from ailments such as digital eye strain and dry eye syndrome,' Dr. Avnish Deobhakta, an ophthalmologist at New York Eye & Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, told The Post. 'Both can cause dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, burning sensations and difficulty focusing on things, all of which can be uncomfortable and disconcerting over time,' he said. How to fix it: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away 'This practice helps to somewhat temporarily rest the eyes,' Deobhakta explained. Keep your monitor at least two feet away, with the center of the screen positioned four to five inches below eye level. Use over-the-counter eye drops. Try prescription glasses specifically for computer work, 'which can help reduce accommodative effort and minimize risk of headaches and blurry vision,' according to Dr. Suyeon Yu, an ophthalmologist at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital. 12 Focusing for prolonged periods can strain your eyes, leading to various vision problems. Jadon Bester/ – Problem #3: Heart disease People working 55 hours or more each week face a 35% higher risk of stroke and a 17% higher risk of dying from heart disease compared to those working a more typical 35 to 40 hours a week, according to a WHO study. The same study showed that in 2016 alone, over 745,000 deaths globally were linked to overwork-related heart disease and stroke. Chronic stress is a major driver: When stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline surge, they raise blood pressure, speed up heart rate, and increase blood sugar and cholesterol. Over time, this constant pressure can wear down the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular events. 12 Overworking can increase your risk for several serious cardiac events and conditions. motortion – But it's not just stress taking a toll on your heart — long hours often mean sacrificing healthy habits, too. 'If most of your time is spent working, then you have less time for other aspects of your life, such as healthy meals, socializing, sleep and exercise,' Dr. Danielle Qing, an internal medicine specialist at Mount Sinai, told The Post. This imbalance can lead to weight gain, poor mental health and sleep deprivation — all major stressors on your heart. Prolonged sitting, common for desk workers, also increases your risk of blood clots, which can lead to a dangerous pulmonary embolism and further strain your heart. How to fix it: Carve out at least 30 minutes a day for physical activity. Get seven to nine hours of sleep a night. Ditch ultra-processed foods in favor of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Relieve stress with deep breathing, mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation and journaling. 12 A poor diet and sedentary lifestyle can increase your chances of developing obesity. Charlie's – Problem #4: Weight gain Logging more than 40 hours a week has been linked to a higher risk of being overweight or obese — and it's not just because of the office birthday cake. 'Often, people resort to buying fast food options, or very processed foods that are easy to prepare,' Qing said. 'These foods are often less nutritious as they are filled with more salt and fat and preservatives.' Translation: Your 12-hour workday ends with a Quarter Pounder and a side of regret. Marathon work sessions often mean skipped meals, and by the time you're finally able to chow down, that intense hunger makes it easy to overeat. 12 Ultra-processed foods are often cheap, accessible and easy to prepare, making them popular choices for office workers. monticellllo – She also said that lack of exercise is a 'huge consequence' of being overworked. Studies show that fewer than one in four Americans get enough physical activity — and many point to work and other obligations as the main reasons they can't squeeze in time for the gym. 'All these effects can lead to weight gain and development of obesity, which has many negative impacts on the body,' Qing said. Obesity increases your risk for a laundry list of health issues, from heart disease and diabetes to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver disease, sleep apnea and even certain cancers. How to fix it: Get a standing desk. Sign up for a meal prep service with healthy food. Exercise! Dr. Theodore Strange, chair of medicine at Northwell Staten Island University Hospital, told The Post that brisk walking, running or cycling 'can help counteract the negative effects of prolonged sitting.' 12 Poor posture and a lack of support while sitting for extended periods can lead to aches and pains. Andrey Popov – Problem #5: Neck and back pain If you've ever spent hours chained to your desk, you've probably felt the familiar twinge in your neck or that nagging ache in your back. You aren't alone. Research shows that up to 69% of office workers experience neck pain, and up to 51% struggle with lower back pain. For many, it becomes chronic. Much of the blame falls on long periods of sitting without breaks, often in awkward positions or with poor posture, which strain the spine, muscles and joints. A bad workstation setup doesn't help either. Poorly placed screens, chairs at the wrong height and lack of lumbar support can all make the discomfort worse. To top it off, repetitive motions like nonstop typing can lead to hand and wrist problems, turning daily tasks into a source of chronic pain. How to fix it: Take short breaks throughout the workday to stretch and walk around. Use an ergonomic chair, keyboard and mouse to fix your posture and prevent musculoskeletal pain. Make sure you have good lighting 12 Chronic stress messes with digestion and throws your gut bacteria out of whack. New Africa – Problem #5: Digestion mayem Prolonged sitting reduces blood flow to your bowels and increases pressure on your digestive system, which can lead to uncomfortable problems like constipation, bloating, gas and cramps. Chronic stress only worsens the issue. Both cortisol and adrenaline can disrupt your gut, slowing the movement of food through your digestive tract and upsetting the balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in your intestines. Over time, this can lead to painful chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and peptic ulcers. How to fix it: Eat smaller, more frequent meals that are rich in fiber. Stay hydrated. Add a probiotic or prebiotic supplement to support gut health. Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation or yoga. 12 Failing to keep your stress levels in check can hurt your body's ability to fight off harmful pathogens. amedeoemaja – Problem #6: Weakened immunity Overworking can weaken your immune system, making you an easy target for colds, infections and that seasonal flu circulating around the office, Strange said. Several factors contribute to this, including chronic stress and lack of sleep, both of which can lower the number and effectiveness of white blood cells, like lymphocytes, that are essential for fighting infections. Stress also disrupts the gut microbiome, leading to inflammation and a weakened immune response. How to fix it: Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night. Incorporate stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga. Practice good hygiene. Limit alcohol and tobacco consumption. Atay current on vaccinations. 12 Overworking can tank your mental health — and your productivity with it. Prostock-studio – Problem #7: Depression, anxiety and burnout All the physical tolls from overworking are compounded by the mental health consequences that can come with too many hours spent on the job. 'Long work hours (beyond even 48 hours weekly) have been correlated with increased chance of developing and struggling with depression and anxiety,' Dr. Anna K. Costakis, psychiatrist at Northwell Staten Island University Hospital, told The Post. Excessive hours can also fuel burnout, a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress. 'There is even evidence to support that there is an increase in suicidal thoughts and actions correlated with longer work hours,' Costakis said. This stems not only from job stress but also from the positive aspects of life that get pushed aside. 'Socializing and spending time with loved ones is an important part of our mental health, and failing to do so can lead to isolation and loneliness, which can worsen depression and anxiety,' Qing said. How to fix it: Get enough sleep. Take 'mental health time-outs' to walk, have a meal or chat with a co-worker. Costakis calls this 'releasing the valve on the pressure cooker.' And remember: 'It's imperative to set clear boundaries with work to maintain physical and mental health,' Costakis said 'For short periods of time, a more stressful couple days of longer work hours can be recalibrated in the following days, but beyond that, any gains aren't worth the loss in rest and health,' she added.
