First Care Clinics

April is Alcohol Awareness Month

We are recommending everyone have a ✔️ check in ✔️ with their relationship to alcohol this month. We live in stressful times. Like anything that can help us escape stress; eating, shopping/spending, exercising, screen time and drinking, too much of a good thing can lead to harmful side effects, misuse and possible addiction.

It's important to know the signs of Alcohol Use Disorder:

-Drinking more or longer than intended.
-Trying to cut down or stop drinking but not managing to do so.
-Spending a lot of time drinking, being sick, or getting over other aftereffects.
-Experiencing cravings, or a strong need to drink.
-Finding that drinking—or being sick from drinking—often interferes with taking care of your home or family, job, or school responsibilities.
-Continuing to drink even though it causes trouble with family or friends.
-Giving up or cutting back on activities that were important or interesting to you, or gave you pleasure, to drink.
-Getting into situations while or after drinking that increase your chances of getting hurt (such as driving, swimming, using machinery, walking in a dangerous area, or having unsafe s*x).
-Continuing to drink even though it was making you feel depressed or anxious or adding to another health problem.
-Having to drink much more to get the effect you want (tolerance).
-Experiencing withdrawal symptoms, such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, irritability, anxiety, depression, restlessness, nausea, or sweating, when the effects of alcohol were wearing off.

If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol use and need support, there are many resources available! Contact your primary care provider or our behavioral health team for resources and support: https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

Other resources:
If you are supporting someone with alcohol use: https://al-anon.org/
If you are struggling with your alcohol use: https://www.aa.org/
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357) is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.

In honor of National Counseling Awareness Month, we would love to take the opportunity to introduce you to some of the members of our Behavioral Health team!

Today we are introducing Dr. Danyelle Brooks, LPC, Behavioral Health therapist. Dr. Brooks works with children and teens and loves to serve the LGBTQIA+ community. Based in Tennessee, Dr. Brooks provides virtual behavioral health therapy. We are so glad to have her experience and care as part of our Behavioral Health team. 💙

At Fast Pace Health, our Behavioral Health team is here to support your mental health. 🧠 Our team of caring and professional licensed clinical counselors and psychiatric nurse practitioners will help determine your needs and get you the support you require, whether that be medication, counseling, or a combination of the two. You are not alone! Connect with us today to get the support you or a loved one may be in need of: https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

In honor of National Counseling Awareness Month, we would love to take the opportunity to introduce you to some of the members of our Behavioral Health team!

Today we are highlighting Erica Flake, PMHNP. Erica loves working with children, teens and trauma victims. She works remotely with the Behavioral Health team, providing services in Mississippi. Erica entered the medical field as an EMT and continued her schooling to become a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Erica is passionate about rural healthcare. In her words, "Rural healthcare is about us. It is our families, our friends, and their future. We need to care for our families and our community. They are our legacy."

We are so glad to have Erica's experience and care as part of our Behavioral Health team. 💙

At Fast Pace Health, our Behavioral Health team is here to support your mental health. 🧠 Our team of caring and professional licensed clinical counselors and psychiatric nurse practitioners will help determine your needs and get you the support you require, whether that be medication, counseling, or a combination of the two. You are not alone! Connect with us today to get the support you or a loved one may be in need of: https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

In honor of National Counseling Awareness Month, we would love to take the opportunity to introduce you to some of the members of our Behavioral Health team!

Today we are introducing Trisha Darling, LCSW. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Trisha works in a counseling capacity with patients of all ages.

Trisha is a graduate of the University of Michigan- Flint, and Wayne State University. When she's not working, Trisha enjoys camping and spending time with her family and her two energetic Boston Terriers!

We are so glad to have her experience and care as part of our Behavioral Health team. 💙

At Fast Pace Health, our Behavioral Health team is here to support your mental health. 🧠 Our team of caring and professional licensed clinical counselors and psychiatric nurse practitioners will help determine your needs and get you the support you require, whether that be medication, counseling, or a combination of the two. You are not alone! Connect with us today to get the support you or a loved one may be in need of: https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

📝✨ Today marks National Healthcare Decisions Day. 📝✨

This nationwide initiative was created to empower individuals to express their wishes regarding healthcare decisions through advance directives.

Why is this important?

🕊️ Peace of Mind: Knowing your healthcare preferences are documented ensures your wishes are respected, even if you're unable to communicate them yourself.

👊 Empowerment: It gives you control over your healthcare future, allowing you to outline exactly what medical actions should be taken in case of a health crisis.

👪 Ease for Loved Ones: It relieves your family and friends from the burden of making difficult decisions during emotional times, knowing they're following your wishes.

👨‍⚕️ 👩‍⚕️ Clarity for Healthcare Providers: It provides clear instructions to healthcare professionals, ensuring your medical treatment aligns with your values and desires.

How to Participate:

💻 Learn: Educate yourself about what advance directives entail. They can include living wills, healthcare power of attorney, and more.

🗣️ Discuss: Have open conversations with your loved ones about your healthcare preferences. It's a crucial step in ensuring everyone understands your wishes.

📝 Document: Put your decisions in writing. Templates and resources are available to guide you through the process.

✉️ Share: Inform your healthcare providers and family about your advance directive. Make sure a copy is easily accessible.

National Healthcare Decisions Day is not about planning for the end; it's about taking control of your health journey and ensuring your voice is heard, always. 💙

In honor of National Counseling Awareness Month, we would love to take the opportunity to introduce you to some of the members of our Behavioral Health team!

Today we are introducing Heather Linton, PMHNP-BC. Heather brings a background in Inpatient Crisis Stabilization and Detox and Outpatient Psychiatry, across the lifespan. She loves working with children and adolescents. She brings personal and professional experience to her practice. Based in Tennessee, Heather provides virtual behavioral health services, and feels that providing this specialty in rural areas that lack easy access and resources make the work very rewarding. We are so glad to have her experience and care as part of our Behavioral Health team. 💙

At Fast Pace Health, our Behavioral Health team is here to support your mental health. 🧠 Our team of caring and professional licensed clinical counselors and psychiatric nurse practitioners will help determine your needs and get you the support you require, whether that be medication, counseling, or a combination of the two. You are not alone! Connect with us today to get the support you or a loved one may be in need of: https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

In honor of National Counseling Awareness Month, we would love to take the opportunity to introduce you to some of the members of our Behavioral Health team!

Today we are introducing Samantha Walker Burns, PMHNP-BC. Samantha works with patients in psychiatry across the lifespan. She is passionate about helping children and adolescents and brings 11 years of experience working with all age groups in a variety of inpatient, residential and outpatient behavioral health settings. We are so glad to have her experience and care as part of our Behavioral Health team. 💙

At Fast Pace Health, our Behavioral Health team is here to support your mental health. 🧠 Our team of caring and professional licensed clinical counselors and psychiatric nurse practitioners will help determine your needs and get you the support you require, whether that be medication, counseling, or a combination of the two. You are not alone! Connect with us today to get the support you or a loved one may be in need of: https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

🌍 Celebrate World Health Day | April 7th 🌍

At Fast Pace Health we aim to create a healthier, happier world by:

1. Promoting healthier lifestyles and wellness activities for every age.
2. Raising awareness about health issues and the importance of healthcare access.
3. Supporting mental health and well-being, recognizing it as crucial to overall health.
4. Encouraging preventive measures, like regular check-ups and screenings, to maintain optimal health.

✔️ A Healthy Tip for World Health Day:
Take a moment to assess your health. Are you keeping up with your health check-ups? Eating balanced meals? Staying active? Prioritizing your mental health? Remember, small changes can lead to big impacts on your health and well-being 💙

Fast Pace Health is here to support your health journey every step of the way. Visit us for comprehensive care tailored to you and your family’s needs. Because everyone deserves to live their healthiest life. https://fastpacehealth.com/

🌿 Embrace Nature, Embrace Well-being 🌿

Did you know that stepping outside and immersing yourself in the natural world is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost your physical and mental health? At Fast Pace Health, we're big believers in the power of nature to heal, restore, and rejuvenate. Here's why you should make connecting with nature a priority:

🧠 1. Boosts Mental Health: Nature walks or simply spending time in green spaces can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The serene environment promotes relaxation and helps clear your mind.

☀️ 2. Enhances Physical Health: Outdoor activities like hiking, walking, or cycling improve cardiovascular health, enhance muscle strength, and support weight management. Plus, sunlight is a natural source of Vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function.

🔋 3. Improves Focus and Creativity: Disconnecting from digital devices and engaging with the natural world can improve concentration, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Nature's tranquility allows your mind to rest, recharge, and explore new ideas.

💕 4. Encourages Social Interaction: Outdoor activities often involve family, friends, or community groups, fostering social connections and shared experiences that are vital for emotional well-being.

🌎 5. Promotes Environmental Stewardship: Connecting with nature increases our appreciation for the environment, inspiring us to protect and preserve our planet.

🌳 This weekend, challenge yourself to spend a few hours outdoors. Whether it's a walk in the park, a day hike, or simply reading a book under a tree, notice how much better you feel.

Nature is calling, will you accept the invitation? 🌱🌺🌼🍃

🌿 April is National Stress Awareness Month 🌿

Everyone experiences stress. Some periods of our lives are more stressful than others. It's important to pay attention to how we handle stress.

💡 Understanding Stress:

Stress affects us all differently, but recognizing the signs is the first step towards management. Whether it's sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, irritability, or difficulty concentrating, acknowledging these symptoms can empower you to take action.

🌱 Building Resilience:

Stay Active: Regular physical activity is key to reducing stress. Find a fun or relaxing activity that gets you moving.

Connect: Reach out to friends and family. Knowing that we have social support and talking about our stressors is stress relieving.

Relax: Incorporate relaxing activities into your daily routine, like spending time with a pet, listening to music, and making time for hobbies. Do things you enjoy!

Organize: A cluttered schedule can lead to a cluttered mind. Prioritize your tasks and set achievable goals. It's okay to say "no" when you're already feeling overwhelmed with your commitments.

🤝 Seeking Help:

It's important to know when to seek professional help. If your stress is overwhelming, our Behavioral Health team can provide you with strategies to manage stress effectively and improve your quality of life. We are here for you. https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

Let's use this month to focus on our well-being, learn healthy ways to manage stress, and support each other. Remember, it's okay to ask for help! Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

Tell us, what's your favorite stress busting activity?

Our clinics will be closed today for Easter 🌷 🐣 🐰 🐇 🌷

We will be open and ready to serve you tomorrow!

3 Things to do during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month:

1. Have a conversation with your provider about screening options.
2. Commit to getting screened if you are eligible.
3. Be the push someone else needs to get screened by sharing your experience.

🐰 Easter Holiday Weekend Hours🐣

Good Friday & Saturday: Our clinic will be open and operate at regular hours. We're here to provide the care you need.

Easter Sunday: In observance of the holiday, our clinic will be closed, allowing our staff to spend time with their families.

Wishing everyone a peaceful and healthy Easter weekend.

🚨 Diabetes Alert Day | March 26th 🚨

At First Care Urgent Care, we're committed to raising awareness and understanding about diabetes, a condition that affects millions worldwide. This Diabetes Alert Day, we are going to highlight the critical information everyone should know about diabetes, including its symptoms, risks, and the importance of early detection!

✔️ Things to Know:

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body turns food into energy.
1️⃣ & 2️⃣ There are mainly two types of diabetes: Type 1, where the body does not make insulin, and Type 2, where the body does not use insulin well.

❤️ 👁️ Managing diabetes is crucial to prevent serious health complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease.

🔎 Symptoms to Watch For:

Increased thirst and urination
Unexplained weight loss
Extreme hunger
Blurry vision
Numbness or tingling in the feet or hands
Fatigue
Very dry skin
Sores that heal slowly
More infections than usual

⏰ Remember, early detection can make a significant difference. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider.

Our urgent care clinics provide Diabetes Screenings and management. To learn more: https://fastpacehealth.com/health-resource/diabetes-a1-c-testing/

And to schedule your visit:
https://fastpacehealth.com/first-care/

Meet Glenda Murray, LPC, MHSP, Behavioral Health provider in our Covington, TN Christian Family Medicine clinic.

Glenda is a graduate of the Harding University School of Theology. When she's not working, Glenda enjoys gardening, quilting, spending time with family, friends and pets.

Before joining Christian Family Medicine as a mental health provider, Glenda spent a decade working in a residential treatment center where she helped patients with dual diagnosis (addiction and mental health disorders) and their families. Glenda is passionate about changing the way people think about self, others and the world and changing the language used for self-talk.

We are so glad to have Glenda in the Fast Pace Health family 💙 To learn more about our behavioral health services, contact us today: https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

🌪️ ⚡ ⛈️ March is Severe Weather Preparedness Month 🌪️ ⚡ ⛈️

As we step into spring, it's crucial to be prepared for severe weather conditions. Whether it's thunderstorms, tornadoes, or floods, being ready can make all the difference. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe:

1️⃣ Create an Emergency Plan:

👪 🆘 Discuss and practice an emergency plan with your family.
🏡 Identify safe places in your home for different types of severe weather.

2️⃣ Build an Emergency Kit:

💧 🥫 🔦 🔋 💊 Stock up on essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and medications.

3️⃣ Stay Informed:

📺 🌧️ Keep an eye on weather forecasts and warnings.
📻 📱 Consider a weather radio or apps that provide real-time alerts.

4️⃣ Secure Your Home:

🏠 Inspect and reinforce roofs, windows, and doors.
🌳 🥅 Trim trees and remove debris that could become flying hazards.

5️⃣ Know Your Community's Emergency Plans:

🏫 ⛪ 🛣️ Be aware of local shelters and evacuation routes.
⚠️ 🔊 Check if your community has a public warning system.

👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️ Your Health and Safety First:

📝 ☎️ Keep a list of emergency contacts, including healthcare providers.
🐶 🐈 Don't forget to include pets in your emergency plans.
🤝 🤲 Preparing for severe weather is a shared responsibility. Let’s work together to ensure our communities are safe and resilient.

Share YOUR tips, what do you do to prepare?

Meet Danyelle Brooks, PhD, LPC, NCC, Behavioral Health provider in Tennessee.

Dr. Brooks is a graduate of the University of Alabama and the University of North Alabama. When she's not working, Dr. Brooks enjoys reading and watching True Crime, attending sporting events and watching football and baseball on tv, playing with her dogs and keeping houseplants.

Dr. Brooks decided to became a counselor after losing her grandfather to Alzheimer's and seeing the impact it had on families. She works with children and teens and loves to serve the LGBTQIA+ community. We are so glad to have Dr. Brooks in the Fast Pace Health family 💙

To work with Dr. Brooks in Tennessee or any of our Behavioral Health providers, schedule with us: https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

🌷 Spring forward with ease! 🌷

⏰ Daylight Saving Time begins this weekend, and while we love the extra daylight in the evenings, losing an hour of sleep can be a tough adjustment. Here are some plan ahead tips to make the transition smoother:

😴 🌙 1. Gradually adjust your sleep schedule: Start going to bed 15 minutes earlier each night a few days before the time change. This small adjustment can help your body ease into the new schedule without a shock.

🌅 2. Soak up the morning sun: Exposure to natural light in the morning helps reset your internal clock. Take a short walk or enjoy your morning coffee outside to help your body adjust.

☕ 📱 3. Limit caffeine and screen time: Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and reduce exposure to screens at least an hour before bedtime. This can help improve the quality of your sleep during the adjustment period.

📖 🛁 4. Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Develop a calming routine before bed to signal your body it's time to wind down. Reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing gentle yoga/movement can help.

📅 5. Stay consistent: Try to keep your sleep and wake times consistent, even on weekends. This regularity helps your body maintain a healthy circadian rhythm.

Remember, it's normal to feel a bit off for the first few days. With these tips, you'll be enjoying the longer days in no time! ☀️

🌱🧠 Take Early Steps for Mental Wellness with Fast Pace Behavioral Health 🧠🌱

Feeling overwhelmed by depression and anxiety can be a heavy burden to carry. At Fast Pace Behavioral Health, we believe in reaching out for help BEFORE you reach a state of overwhelm. Here’s why early intervention in therapy is crucial:

1️⃣ Prevent Escalation:

Early therapy can prevent symptoms from worsening.
It’s easier to manage and treat depression and anxiety in earlier stages.

2️⃣ Build Resilience:

Therapy equips you with coping strategies and tools to handle stressors effectively.
Building resilience can reduce the impact of future challenges.

3️⃣ Understand Your Mental Health:

Therapy sessions can help you understand the root causes of your feelings.
Increased self-awareness leads to better self-care and mental health management.

4️⃣ Improve Overall Well-being:

Mental health is closely linked to physical health.
Addressing psychological issues early can enhance your overall quality of life.

👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️ We Are Here for You:

Our team of compassionate professionals is ready to support you.
Together, we can navigate your path to mental wellness. Don’t wait for the storm to hit. Taking the first step towards therapy can be the start of a healthier, happier you.

Reach out to us today – your mental health matters!
https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

Introducing Heather Linton, PMHNP-BC, Behavioral Health provider!

Heather is a graduate of Lincoln Memorial University. When she's not working, Heather enjoys spending time with her husband and her girls. Heather brings a background in Inpatient Crisis Stabilization and Detox and Outpatient Psychiatry, with clients across the lifespan. She loves working with children and adolescents. Based in Tennessee, Heather provides virtual behavioral health services, and feels that providing this specialty in rural areas that lack easy access and resources make the work very rewarding. We are so glad to have her experience and care as part of our Behavioral Health team. 💙

At Fast Pace Health, our Behavioral Health team is here to support your mental health. 🧠 Our team of caring and professional licensed clinical counselors and psychiatric nurse practitioners will help determine your needs and get you the support you require, whether that be medication, counseling, or a combination of the two. You are not alone! Connect with us today to get the support you or a loved one may be in need of: https://fastpacehealth.com/service/behavioral-health/

🔵 March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month 🔵

At Fast Pace Health we are encouraging everyone to focus on colorectal cancer this month. Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. Early detection through screening can save lives, making awareness more important than ever.

🌟 Why Get Screened?

✔️ Colorectal cancer often begins as noncancerous polyps, which can be detected and removed through screening.
✔️ Screening is recommended starting at age 45 for most adults, but earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.
✔️ Early detection significantly increases treatment success rates.

👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️ How to Get Screened:

🔎 There are several types of screening tests available, including colonoscopies and at-home stool tests.
🔎 Talk to your healthcare provider about which screening option is right for you.

📢 Let’s Spread the Word:

🔗 Share this message to remind your loved ones about the importance of colorectal cancer screenings.
💙 Wearing blue this month can help raise awareness and show support for those affected by colorectal cancer.

Together, we can take proactive steps toward prevention and early detection. Schedule your screening today and take control of your health.

Sufferers Unite! It's spring again and that means ALLERGIES! Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, affect millions of people worldwide. Symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes can make us uncomfortable (miserable) and interfere with daily activities. We are here to help you manage seasonal allergies and find relief. 🌼 🌿 🌳 🤧

Some tips to help you manage:

1. Know your allergy triggers and how to avoid them. Staying indoors during high pollen count days, using air conditioning instead of opening windows, and changing clothes after being outside. Using HEPA filter your home may reduce exposure to allergens. Find a local pollen/weather tracker, to see what's high in your area on certain days.💨 🍃

2. Medications: health care providers can prescribe or recommend over-the-counter medications to help you manage your allergy symptoms. Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids are common medications used to treat seasonal allergies.😷 💊

3. Referral to specialists: If your symptoms are severe or not responding to treatment, your health care provider may refer you to an allergist or immunologist for further evaluation and management. This treatment may include allergen immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots. Treatment involves injecting small amounts of an allergen under the skin over time, which can help reduce the body's sensitivity to the allergen and decrease symptoms.👨‍⚕️ 💉

It's important to communicate openly with your health care provider about allergy symptoms and any concerns you may have. You don't have to suffer! By working together you can develop a personalized treatment plan that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life during this time of year. 🙌 🌸 🌱

🌟 Celebrating Our First Care Clinic Heroes 🌟

This Employee Appreciation Week, we at Fast Pace Health want to highlight the unparalleled dedication of all our team members and healthcare providers. 🩺💙

Every day, our team goes above and beyond, not just in delivering exceptional care, but in touching the lives of our patients in the most profound ways. Their compassion and unwavering commitment make an impact on the communities we serve.

Their heroism doesn't wear a cape; it's found in the tender care they provide, the lives they touch, and the hope they instill in each patient they meet. They are the heart and soul of healthcare, embodying our core values and mission to provide comprehensive, accessible, and patient-centered care.

To our team of healthcare providers: Thank you for being our heroes every day. Your hard work, dedication, and compassionate care do not go unnoticed. You inspire us all with your commitment to excellence and the meaningful difference you make in the lives of those you serve.

Let's all take a moment to appreciate our First Care Clinic team for their heroic efforts. Your passion for patient care is what makes Fast Pace Health not just a place to work, but a family, a community, and a support for so many.

Here's to you, our healthcare heroes! 👏🎉

We invite you to join us in celebrating by sharing your own stories or messages of thanks using the hashtag . Let's flood our feeds with love and appreciation for the incredible individuals who make Fast Pace Health a beacon of hope and care.

Some people see trees blooming, others see ALLERGIES!

If you're in the second group, we understand! And we are here for you. Come see us for allergy relief, you don't have to suffer 🌳 🌱 🌼 🤧

Introducing Samantha Walker Burns, PMHNP-BC, Behavioral Health provider!

Samantha is a graduate of Tennessee Wesleyan University and Lincoln Memorial University. When she's not working, Samantha enjoys water sports and traveling with her husband!

Samantha bring a variety of professional experience, having worked in psychiatry with patients of all ages, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She is passionate about working with children and adolescents.

We are excited to have her care and experience on our Behavioral Health team!