234. Chronic Pain in Kids: An Innovative Approach

Are today's youth the missing voice in mental health advocacy?In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, host Dr. Lia Gaggino invites passionate mental health advocate Ria Babaria to talk about the unique struggles and strengths of today's youth. In&nbsp; her journey from high school advocate to college policy specialist, Ria emphasizes the need for youth representation in mental health decisions. She discusses the Youth Power Project's initiatives, access to mental health resources, and the importance of bridging societal and systemic gaps. From personal challenges to state-wide advocacy, Ria highlights the transformative power of youth voices in policy-making. Join us as we explore the potential changes when youth are given a platform to be heard.&nbsp;The future of mental health is their future— but are we ready to listen?[00:05 -15:21] The Birth of Youth AdvocacyThe significance of amplifying youth voices in education and policy through advocacy organizationsImportance of bridging education gaps and providing resources for low-income and vulnerable youthEmpowering youth to assert confidence and influence in advocacy spacesThe transformative impact of including diverse backgrounds in policy discussions[15:12 -22:22] Mental Health Advocacy and Cultural ChallengesAddressing mental health struggles within POC households and breaking cultural taboosThe importance of emotion integration for personal growth and social interactionsBuilding confidence to engage in mental health advocacy at a young ageShaping policy through lived experiences and peer discussions[22:23 -38:50] Expanding the Youth Power Project ReachThe national evolution from initial state-focused youth groups to broader advocacy at YPPStrategizing for impactful health reform through youth collaboration and legislative workNavigating peer-to-peer networks to bolster the youth advocacy movementTailoring mental health and educational policies around authentic youth voices[38:51-48:50] Enhancing Access and System ReformsAddressing consistency and discrepancies in mental health resource access nationwideInnovative strategies to demystify access and eliminate stigma around mental health supportStrengthening first aid mental health training to improve communication and supportDeveloping legislative frameworks to integrate youth insights within mental health policy48:51-32:50] Dr. Lia’s TakeAwaysConnect with Ria &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; [email protected] Mentioned:PHQ-9 Screening Tool for Depression:PHQ-9 QuestionnaireYouth Power Project Website:Youth Power ProjectMental Health First Aid Training:Mental Health First AidYouth Power Project<a...

Have you ever wondered what to do when traditional treatments for chronic pain in children don’t seem to help?&nbsp;In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, Dr. Lia Gaggino chats with Dr. Lonnie Zeltzer and Kim Poston Miller about innovative ways to address pediatric chronic pain. They discuss CHYP (Creative Healing for Youth in Pain), an organization offering hope to families through a creative, holistic approach to healing. Kim shares her personal story of supporting her son Grant’s remarkable recovery, showing how creativity can play a powerful role in pain management.&nbsp;Tune in to learn how these approaches are opening new doors for children and families. Could creativity be the missing piece in chronic pain care?[00:02 - 08:46] From Suffering to Hope – Introduction to CHYPKim talks about her personal journey as an advocate for CHYP, and the pivotal role creative arts played in her child's recovery.Unpack the story behind Dr. Zeltzer’s influence in reshaping pediatric pain management.Learn about the resourcefulness of a mother navigating her child's illness in a segmented medical landscape.Understand CHYP’s role as a free, accessible solution to complex chronic pain issues for any child worldwide.[08:47 - 14:53] Kim’s Inspiring Journey: Transforming Tragedy into TriumphSee the power of combining modern medicine with creative healing arts.Examine the interconnected struggles of family members often overlooked in medical treatments.Discover how social engagement became a lifeline for healing and improved quality of life.Find out how a mother's intuition and creative willingness conquered skepticism in professional medical advice.[14:54 - 23:30] The Creative System: Dr.Zeltzer's Vision and CHYP’s FoundationExplore Dr.Zeltzer's 30-year journey of treating kids with chronic pain and the birth of the CHYP initiative.Appreciate the need for an online platform providing holistic, no-cost care to children globally.Grasp the significance of the biopsychosocial model in comprehending pediatric pain.Understand the empowerment and education process for both children and parents under the CHYP program.[23:31 - 54:36] Creating Magic: Camp as a Vessel for Change and ConnectionHighlight the access to interactive platforms and workshops designed to enhance creative healing for youth.Recognize the significance of larger social networks in managing pain through shared lived experiences.Celebrate the impactful break-through of barriers, from timidity to friends on social platforms.Appreciate CHYP’s strategic growth with events uniquely catering to different age brackets for maximal impact.[54:37 -&nbsp; 1:00:53]&nbsp; Dr. Lia’s Takeaways&nbsp;Connect with Lonnie Zeltzerhttps://linktr.ee/mychyphttps://www.instagram.com/my_chyp/https://www.linkedin.com/company/creative-healing-for-youth-in-pain/https://www.facebook.com/creativehealingforyouthinpainConnect with Kimberly MillerLI Kimberly Miller, MBAFB <a href="https://www.facebook.com/creativehealingforyouthinpain/"...

Did you know that&nbsp;nearly twenty-five percent of adolescents suffer from chronic pain, and for some, it’s severe enough to impact daily life?&nbsp;In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, Dr. Lia Gaggino and guest Dr. Lonnie Zeltzer talk about the complexity of chronic pain in children and adolescents—a subject often misunderstood and inadequately addressed in pediatric medicine. Through personal anecdotes and expert insights, Dr. Zeltzer shares her journey from a curiosity about adolescent medicine to specializing in pediatric chronic pain using modern pain science. This conversation not only unravels the preconceived beliefs surrounding chronic pain but also offers&nbsp;potential pathways and methods to manage and reframe the experience of pain in young individuals.&nbsp;The episode is an eye-opener for anyone seeking to understand and support children grappling with chronic pain.[00:00 - 17:02]&nbsp; Prevalence and Challenges of Pediatric Chronic PainChronic pain affects 15–30% of adolescents globally, with 15% experiencing severe impairment.&nbsp;&nbsp;70% of adolescents with untreated chronic pain develop adult chronic pain.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pediatricians often lack training in modern chronic pain management concepts.&nbsp;&nbsp;Subspecialists frequently struggle to address chronic pain after ruling out organic causes.&nbsp;[17:02 - 27:55]&nbsp; Neurobiological and Psychosocial Factors&nbsp;Chronic pain correlates with limbic system hyperactivity and prefrontal cortex underdevelopment in adolescents.&nbsp;&nbsp;Neurodiverse individuals may experience heightened sensory sensitivity, amplifying pain perception.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) retrain pain-related neural pathways.&nbsp;&nbsp;POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) reflects autonomic nervous system dysregulation linked to chronic pain.&nbsp;[27:56 - 21:06] Gastrointestinal and Autonomic Dysregulation&nbsp;&nbsp;Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) stems from brain-gut axis dysfunction, not structural gastrointestinal issues.&nbsp;&nbsp;Autonomic dysregulation in POTS requires salt intake, hydration, and compression garments for management.&nbsp;&nbsp;Acupuncture and acupressure offer nonpharmacologic relief, particularly for needle-tolerant patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;Abdominal pain often involves muscular tension, addressed through targeted physical therapy.&nbsp;&nbsp;[21:07 - 48:48 ]&nbsp; Practical Clinical Interventions &nbsp;Brief in-office mindfulness exercises (e.g., guided breathing) provide immediate stress relief.&nbsp;&nbsp;Motivational interviewing helps adolescents identify achievable goals, like gradual physical activity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Parent-child dyads benefit from joint mindfulness apps (e.g., Insight Timer) to reduce household stress.&nbsp;&nbsp;The "five golden minutes" of non-directed play or connection improve emotional regulation.[48:49 - 54:23]&nbsp; Dr. Lia’s Takeaways&nbsp;Connect with Lonnie Zeltzerhttps://linktr.ee/mychyphttps://www.instagram.com/my_chyp/https://www.linkedin.com/company/creative-healing-for-youth-in-pain/https://www.facebook.com/creativehealingforyouthinpainResources mentioned in the...

Could a simple cash transfer program hold the key to reducing child poverty?&nbsp;In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, host Dr. Lia Gaggino chats with pediatrician and advocate, Dr. Brittney Tayler, about an innovative program called Rx Kids. Together, they explore how cash transfers can improve child health and well-being, especially in communities facing deep poverty. Dr. Tayler shares her firsthand experience in Flint, Michigan, detailing the transformation she's witnessed through the Rx Kids program. From addressing housing issues to boosting educational outcomes, this episode uncovers the impact that a single initiative can have.&nbsp;Connect with the importance of advocacy and how one person can drive significant change, leaving a lasting impression on the entire community.[00:00 - 05:07] From Pediatrics to Advocacy: Dr. Tayler's JourneyFind out how an accidental advocacy led to Dr. Tayler’s increased involvement in health policy.Understand the significance of Dr. Tayler’s meeting with a senator, and the impact it had on health legislation.Learn about the challenges of navigating advocacy as a medical professional.Appreciate the support Dr. Tayler received from experienced mentors to sharpen her advocacy skills.[05:07 - 12:32] Understanding Poverty's Impact on Child HealthExplore the key aspects of poverty affecting child health, including housing and food security.Recognize the critical role of parents' stress levels in influencing children's well-being.Explore the widespread effects of poverty on all domains of health and life.Analyze how poverty can deeply affect educational outcomes and opportunities for children.[12:32 - 21:07] Rx Kids: Transforming Communities Through Direct Cash TransfersThe transition from expanded child tax credit to the creation of Rx Kids.Discover the pivotal role of expanded child tax credits in reducing child poverty during the pandemic.How small studies and data informed the large-scale development of Rx Kids.Discover the impactful results seen so far in communities participating in direct cash transfer programs.[21:07 - 30:21] Pioneering Change and Empowering CommunitiesUnderstand why Flint, Michigan, became the perfect place to pilot the Rx Kids program.Uncover the logistical aspects and eligibility criteria of the Rx Kids cash transfer program.The importance of dignity, trust, and community-wide benefits in program implementation.Future aspirations: how Rx Kids aims to expand and sustain its impact in Flint and beyond.[30:22 - 35:21]&nbsp; TakeAwaysConnect with Dr. Brittney TaylerFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/RxKidsUSInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/rxkidsus/LinkedIn -&nbsp; https://www.linkedin.com/company/rx-kids/Resources mentioned in the show:https://rxkids.org/about/communities/flint/Chevy in the Hole by Kelsey Ronan https://www.amazon.com/Chevy-Hole-Novel-Kelsey-Ronan/dp/125080390X&nbsp;Luke Shaefer PhD <a href="https://poverty.umich.edu/projects/flint-rx-kids/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Ever wonder how the current chaotic world and the state of healthcare are affecting our children, the most vulnerable members of society and those of us who care for them?&nbsp; Listen to this episode as Lia shares her angst and hope with the complexities of a world facing climate disasters, political strife, physician burnout, and a dwindling trust in science. This solo episode is a self-reflection about building the courage, commitment, and resilience required to safeguard children's health in these turbulent times. As Lia recounts her own experiences during the pandemic and advocates for unwavering integrity in pediatric care, she challenges listeners to reflect on their role to protect the wellbeing of ALL children.. This episode is a call to action—will you answer it?&nbsp;[00:05- 04:27] Insights on Pediatric Practice&nbsp;The rigorous process of policy creation and revision within the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).Importance of adhering to evidence-based practices and adapting policies based on scientific discoveries.The challenges pediatricians face, including making life-and-death decisions.Commitment to upholding the Hippocratic Oath despite mounting difficulties.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[04:28 -11:54] Challenges in Pediatric HealthcareLong hours, difficult on-call shifts, and emotionally taxing decisions faced by pediatricians.Inequities in healthcare access, especially for marginalized children.Disinformation surrounding vaccines and its impact on parental decisions.Concerns over administrators dictating healthcare delivery without medical expertise.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[11:55 - 17:58] &nbsp;Challenges in Pediatric HealthcareThe exhaustion and disheartenment experienced by pediatricians.Unfair contracts, financial pressures, and charting demands that intrude on family time.Pediatricians' dedication despite overwhelming demands, driven by a sense of calling.The public's misconceptions about pediatricians' financial motivations regarding vaccines.[17:59 - 22:30] Call to Action and AdvocacyA rallying message for pediatricians to support one another and remain resilient.Reinforcement of the commitment to doing what is best for children.The importance of unity and collective efforts to address healthcare challenges.Encouragement to engage with future episodes featuring interesting guests.Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeWebsite: PediatricMeltdown.comAAP (American Academy of Pediatrics): Highlighted as a trusted source for pediatric guidelines.Dr. Anthony Fauci: Mentioned as a prominent figure in guiding healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic.https://pediatricmeltdown.com/episodes120 ADHD: Part 4 Executive Function119 ADHD Part 3: Executive Function109 ADHD Symptoms: Executive Functions Part IIADHD: Strategies for Boosting Executive FunctionTweetable Quotes:"To my pediatric colleagues, we cannot be intimidated. We cannot be afraid. We have to lean into each other and have each other's backs."... Dr. Lia Gaggino on the power of solidarity"Despite the insanity of misinformation, hyperbole, and conspiracy theories, he prevailed even when he and his family were threatened and continue to be threatened."...Dr. Lia Gaggino on what Dr. Fauci had to...

Raising Good Citizens Through Conscious ParentingWhat does it take to raise thoughtful citizens and build stronger communities while navigating the challenges of parenting, aging, and personal growth?&nbsp;In this episode, Dr. Robert Saul], an author and pediatrician, shares his insights from his career dedicated to advocating for children, families, and communities. Dr. Saul discusses his journey of writing books that cater to parents, children, and physicians, including one described as "Goodnight Moon with a message," using vivid illustrations and meaningful text to engage families. Through relatable examples like managing tantrums, school avoidance, and making tough decisions as both parents and children of aging parents, Dr. Saul emphasizes the importance of fostering responsibility and kindness. Drawing wisdom from the "5 M's" of mentoring, mediating, mobilizing, monitoring, and motivating, Dr. Saul inspires listeners to embrace their roles as sages and positive influences.&nbsp;Will this be the conversation that reshapes the way you see parenting and citizenship?&nbsp;[00:05- 11:27] Foundations of Conscious Parenting&nbsp;Key realization: “I am the problem, I am the solution, I am the resource.”The role of community engagement in addressing societal issues like teenage pregnancy and disengagement.Introduction to the “Five Steps to Community Improvement.”Impact of Columbine (1999) and its role in inspiring advocacy and writing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[11:28 -20:54] Overcoming Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)The significance of nurturing, safe, and stable relationships (SSNRs).Introduction to SSNRs as a buffer against toxic stress.Role of parents in creating environments that foster resilience in children.Emphasis on pediatricians' responsibility to guide and support parents.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[20:55 - 35:58] &nbsp;The Parental Awareness Threshold (PAT)Concept of being "above the line" (curious and open) vs. "below the line" (closed and defensive).Strategies for managing stress and frustration as a parent: pause, assess, choose.Frameworks for addressing challenges like tantrums and teenage rebellion.Balancing empathy with practical parenting techniques.[35:59 - 46:30] Advocacy and Community EngagementRole of pediatricians in supporting families facing poverty, domestic violence, or instability.The importance of advocacy for systemic changes to improve family support.Encouraging involvement in organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).The significance of professional networks for mutual support and advocacy.Connect with Dr. Saul:&nbsp;[email protected]://mychildrenschildren.com/ to learn more.Resources mentioned in the show:BooksMy Children’s ChildrenThinking DevelopmentallyConscious ParentingBowling AloneConscious Leadership<a href="https://mychildrenschildren.com/book/all-about-children/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

This episode was actually published in June 2022, but this is STILL a huge issue, so we thought we would take another listen …How can pediatric primary care effectively integrate mental health services amid insurance barriers and coding complexities?&nbsp;In this episode, we tackle the significant obstacles impacting the compensation and delivery of mental health services for children. By examining Medicaid, CHIP and commercial insurance coverage for mental health, we highlight challenges that hinder pediatricians and affect their young patients and families. The conversation sheds light on potential solutions, such as integrated behavioral health and group therapy, which may offer new avenues for improving care and financial viability. Through shared experiences from industry experts, we explore potential strategies to both navigate and potentially reform the delivery of pediatric mental health services.&nbsp;Considering the significant implications this has on future generations, what steps must we take now to ensure a sustainable and effective approach that genuinely meets the needs of children and their families?&nbsp;[00:05- 19:41] Financial and Operational Burdens&nbsp;Household income criteria affect eligibility for Medicaid, impacting family financial planning.Pediatric practices bear costs of unrecognized mental health work because of inadequate reimbursement.Parents' financial stress increased by the lack of integration between medical and mental health services.Complex insurance landscapes necessitate physician adaptability in operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[19:42 -29:58] Pediatric Practice Challenges&nbsp;Mental health visits require more time but yield less reimbursement compared to physical ailments.Physicians provide extensive unpaid follow-up care via phone calls and messages.Insurance systems do not adequately support mental health coding for pediatricians.Complexity in billing for mental health services creates administrative challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[29:59 - 38:51] &nbsp;Economic and Qualitative Outcomes &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Coordinated care allows pediatricians to manage comprehensive patient care plans.Insurance company partnerships needed for sustainable pediatric mental health initiatives.Effective systems require data to demonstrate long-term cost benefits and outcomes.Organizations should engage with insurance companies to carve out necessary screening costs[38:52 - 1:05:50] Advocacy and Reform Efforts&nbsp;&nbsp;Reform needed in coding and billing processes to reflect the true nature of mental health support.Integrated care models as a potential less visible, but essential cost benefit.Engaging with insurance companies on mutual goals can lead to practice sustainability.Systems must prioritize patient-centered care, integrating mental and physical health.[1:05:51 - 1:13:48] TakeAwaysConnect with our guestsJenna Vallejo&nbsp;Facebook,&nbsp;Instagram,&nbsp;LinkedInDr. Jon Price&nbsp;nationwidechildrens.comGo to https://lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com/ for all episodes166 Chronic Illness and...

In 2020, I had the privilege of being a guest speaker on Sandy Fowler’s podcast “Mighty Parenting” for a candid discussion about youth mental health, suicide prevention, and the critical role parents play in supporting their children through emotional challenges. I thought it would be interesting to blow the dust off this episode where I was being interviewed by Sandy.&nbsp;As a medical professional deeply committed to improving mental health care in primary care settings, I shared insights specifically for parents about how to recognize warning signs, have difficult conversations, and access appropriate resources. That conversation became a pivotal moment in my career, sparking my desire to reach a broader audience through podcasting… Pediatric Meltdown was born!Today, as the host of Pediatric Meltdown, I continue to build upon that mission, but I thought it would be worth revisiting this discussion that served as a catalyst for my current role as a podcast host. During our conversation, we tackled the crucial topic of youth suicide prevention, breaking down barriers to communication, and providing practical tools for parents to support their children's mental well-being. Unfortunately, with the impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic, this discussion remains as relevant today as it was then, perhaps even more so.&nbsp;[00:05- 21:59] Brain Development &amp; Behavior&nbsp;Teen brains function differently from adult brainsRole of prefrontal cortex in decision makingImpact of developing brain on behaviorUnderstanding cognitive limitations&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[22:00 -32:45] Suicide Prevention StrategiesProper approach to discussing suicidal thoughtsImportance of staying calm during difficult conversationsAvailable crisis resourcesSteps for emergency&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;[32:46 - 42:51] Mental Health Statistics25% of youth screen positive for depressionAnnual screening recommendations for ages 12+15% experience suicidal thoughtsImplementation of 54321 coping technique[42:52 - 53:02] Action Steps for Parents&nbsp;Creating safe environment for emotional expressionUnderstanding brain development impactUsing emotional scale assessments (1-5)Knowing when to seek helpGo to https://lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com/ for all episodes169. Lisa Durante's Strategy for Mastering Your Content Marketing Plan!153&nbsp; A 3-Step Guide to Skyrocketing Your Income137 Marketing, Management, and Metrics: The Keys to Consistent SuccessTweetable Quotes:"But in terms of completed suicides, it's firearms, and the really sad thing is, suffocation mostly by hanging is the most common and becoming more common and that one, of course, is really hard to restrict because you can hang yourself with so many items."&nbsp; … Dr. Lia Gaggino on the harsh reality of suicide methods&nbsp;“"If you set the stage that it's okay to talk about your thoughts and feelings, then and and that's just a habit that you've had all along, then I think it makes the conversation easier." … Dr. Lia Gaggino on communicating with kids about Mental Health**TRANSCRIPT AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST**SUBSCRIBE &amp; LEAVE A FIVE-STAR REVIEW and share this podcast to other growing entrepreneurs!&nbsp;Get weekly tips on how to create more money and meaning doing work you love and be one of the many growing entrepreneurs in our community. Connect...

What happens when a physician who regularly discusses wellness and burnout finds herself in need of her own advice?&nbsp;In this personal episode of "Pediatric Meltdown," host Dr. Lia Gaggino candidly shares her journey through an overwhelming period in late 2024, marked by her father's death, her mother's hip surgery and subsequent move-in, and the unexpected loss of her beloved pet. Despite having a strong support system that includes her husband Rodger, adult daughters, and one-year-old grandson George, she acknowledges her exhaustion and struggles with sleep, nutrition, and exercise habits.&nbsp;This episode is an honest confession of how even wellness advocates can find themselves needing to replenish their own spirit, in other words, to walk the walk in self-compassion.&nbsp; Some deep soul searching led to Lia’s decision to take a month-long sabbatical from the podcast while still ensuring weekly content.&nbsp; You can look forward to surprise episodes specially curated by her team just for you.Key Takeaways:1. Self-awareness and vulnerability are crucial steps in addressing burnout, as demonstrated by Dr. Lia's honest acknowledgment of her own struggles despite being a wellness expert.2. Setting boundaries and making concrete changes (like designated phone-free zones, scheduled exercise, and sleep routines) are essential components of self-preservation during challenging times.3. A strong support system and a temporary “leave of absence” makes space for her mental health re-boot.&nbsp; Dr. Lia is privileged to be able to take this break, and recognizes that a break like this may not be an option for many, but she offers some baby steps for herself&nbsp;that can be added to your own self-kindness tool-box.&nbsp; Making time for self-reflection may be the key to long-term sustainability in both personal and professional life.&nbsp;&nbsp;Make sure to tune in all month long for some episodes that you most likely have not heard. They were curated by Dr. Lia, and her team and they hold a special place in her heart.**TRANSCRIPT AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST**SUBSCRIBE &amp; LEAVE A FIVE-STAR REVIEW and share this podcast to other growing entrepreneurs!&nbsp;Get weekly tips on how to create more money and meaning doing work you love and be one of the many growing entrepreneurs in our community. Connect with me on LinkedIn; https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12656341/&nbsp; or on Instagram or our website at www.lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com .&nbsp;&nbsp;

What does it truly mean to cultivate resilience and well-being in today's challenging world?&nbsp;In this insightful episode of Dr. Lia Gaggino's podcast (episode 227), she thoughtfully explores seven fundamental pillars of well-being while reflecting on the transition into 2025. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, particularly while caring for her aging mother, Dr. Gaggino presents a comprehensive approach to health that encompasses sleep, nutrition, movement, family connections, friendships, creativity, and spirituality. She authentically acknowledges the struggles many face, from avoiding overwhelming news to managing daily stresses, while offering practical, judgment-free advice that balances aspiration with self-compassion.&nbsp;Her message resonates particularly strongly when she emphasizes that relationships are the ultimate antidote to loneliness, fear, and sadness, demonstrating a deep understanding of human nature and the complexities of modern life.Key Takeaways:1. Well-being is multifaceted and requires attention to both physical aspects (sleep, nutrition, movement) and emotional/social components (family, friends, creativity, spirituality).2. Perfection shouldn't be the enemy of progress - it's important to maintain healthy habits while showing yourself grace during challenging times.3. Strong relationships and social connections are crucial for emotional resilience and long-term health, whether these connections are with family of origin or chosen family.Let’s make 2025 the Best Year EVER!!