Top Ten Best Places to Invest in Property in the UK

The North West of England tops the charts as the best place to invest for high annual rental yields, whereas the South East benefits from huge increases in house prices.Despite George Osborne announcing an additional 3% Stamp Duty to be levied on the purchase of additional properties in his 2016 Budget, investing in property can still be profitable, and here are the most lucrative areas to invest.The North West of England topped the tables as the most lucrative area to invest in property to achieve high rental yields; and with four renters vying for each property, there’s no shortage of demand.Conversely, those who have invested in the South East and London would benefit from the increase in house prices.Invest in Property in the North West of England to Achieve High Rental YieldsMore specifically, Manchester tops the poll as the best place to invest if you wish to achieve high rental yields. The yield is calculated by taking into account the average monthly rent and working it out as a percentage of the property’s market price. The average rental yield in Manchester is 6.02% and Liverpool came in a close second. The full list is below:• Manchester 6.02%
• Liverpool 5.16%
• Cardiff 5.10%
• Coventry 5.02%
• Oldham 4.98%
• Sunderland 4.97%
• Luton 4.91%
• Southend-On-Sea 4.87%
• Outer London 4.86%
• Rochester / Medway 4.79%Manchester Named Best Place to Invest in PropertyManchester tops the table as the best place to invest to achieve high rental yields. Not only can investors achieve high rental yields here, there is also a sizeable rental sector. 26.85% of the housing stock is privately rented, which is above the national average of 18% and assures investors that there will be a strong demand for property. Manchester is also home to 60% more 25-29 year olds (those most likely to rent) than anywhere else in the UK.The Best Northern Cities to Invest in Property Outside of ManchesterLiverpoolLiverpool comes in a close second on the table of the best places to invest in property to achieve high rental yields. Liverpool is undergoing several regeneration schemes focusing on Liverpool docks and housing that upon completion will only raise house prices in the area as it increases in desirability. Liverpool’s L1 postcode in particular is on the up, still remaining affordable but having experienced a rise in house prices of 41.2%.Liverpool’s huge student population means that there is always a requirement for accommodation, and this coupled with low house prices and high rental values allows investors to maximize their yields.Student accommodation investments in Liverpool such as Pembroke Studios are particularly good attractive, guaranteeing immediate income, zero development risk and 8% net rental income guaranteed for 5 years. The development’s proximity to several universities including Liverpool John Moores and the University of Liverpool only enhances its appeal to Liverpool’s 50, 000-strong student population.SheffieldSheffield is also forecasted to experience some of the highest rental yield growth over the coming years. This can partly be attributed to a shortage of high quality housing stock in the city, but also the city has been named the second “northern powerhouse”; a scheme to increase investment and devolve powers to northern towns and cities such as Hull, Manchester and Sheffield. Traditionally a steel manufacturing city, Sheffield’s focus has turned towards tech and it is now the 9th largest tech centre in the country. Other tech cities include London and Cambridge, however the cost of living in both is becoming increasingly out of reach for most, so Sheffield is seen as a suitable alternative by many.Sheffield’s growth makes it a viable city for buy-to-let property investment. Although Sheffield didn’t officially make the top ten best places to invest in property in the UK, the S1 postcode achieves some of the highest gross yields in the whole of the UK. Investors can buy a property in the S1 postcode for under £70, 000 and generate gross yields of up to 11%. This, coupled with the growing tech industry in the city means that demand for housing can only rise.Invest in Property in Cardiff and Coventry to Achieve Excellent Rental YieldsCities such as Cardiff and Coventry also command excellent rental yields, due to relatively low property prices. In particular, Cardiff has seen finance and business services employment growth of 4.4%, outstripping the rest of Wales and the UK as a whole. These improving economic conditions in Cardiff mean that many anticipate a rise in demand for rental properties in the area. With businesses and investors finally seeing the benefits in cities other than London, it is no surprise that property in these areas is increasingly becoming more desirable.Investing in Property in the South East of England to Generate High Capital GainsThe South East tops the tables when it comes to capital gains, with property investments in inner London generating an annualised return of 7.9% and properties in Cambridge generating 5.99%. With regards to rental yields, when compared to the North, the South East performs poorly and nine out of ten of the worst performing postcodes are based in the South East and London. This is mainly due to soaring house prices, which of course is good to generate high capital gains, but negatively affects rental yield.So, Where Should Investors Buy Property?Investors may find it easier and safer to invest in the North where house prices are relatively low, rather than take a risk with property investments in the South East, where house prices are high. Although properties in London and the South East generate a much higher annualised return, many investors find that they do not want to invest so much money into a property as the risk is much higher. To generate a steady income with lower risk, we recommend considering places such as Manchester, Liverpool and Sheffield to invest in property. The benefit of investing in Manchester and Liverpool in particular is that even though property prices are currently low, they are predicted to experience the biggest growth in house prices due to graduates deciding to stay after completing their education. As mentioned previously, the L1 postcode in Liverpool is home to some of the largest property price increases in the country, experiencing a 41.2% growth in the last year alone. Average property prices in the area went from £85, 000 between December 2011 and November 2014 to £120, 000 for the year to November 2015. Manchester, Liverpool and Sheffield are still affordable but we advise early investment to benefit from the predicted rise in house prices.

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Timeshares and Fractional Properties – A Unique Way To Increase The Value Of Your Property

Timeshares and fractional properties have recently emerged as popular practices for owning properties. The premise behind these two concepts is a significant reduction in the amount needed to buy prime properties which enable a larger percentage of the population to buy.A timeshare is as simple as the name suggests; this practice enables people to own any form of vacation property such as condominiums or cooperatives. This concept has been extended to apply to houseboats, yachts, campgrounds, motor homes, and cruises. Initially, the company owns the property and sells time periods of it to varied owners who share its costs collectively. Primarily, timeshare properties are available to the owners from one to three weeks during a year. These owners have several options to use their timeshare properties; these includeo Personal useo Rental propertyo Gift to anyoneo Exchange internally with other owners within the same propertyo Exchange externally with owners of other timeshare propertiesA fractional property is different from a timeshare in terms that it is a more expensive asset. A company is usually the primary caretaker of the property and it manages the property on behalf of the owners. The owners are allocated time periods ranging from two to thirteen weeks spaced out during a year’s length. Fractional properties offer several benefits to its owners over timeshare properties including a share of income from the fractional asset property.BenefitsThe concept of timeshare properties emerged in the early 1960s in Europe. It is extremely significant to research a property before buying it; typical areas of research should include the management scheme, time of year, exchange mechanisms and other details. People take the initiative to buy timeshare properties for a number of reasons:o Timeshares allow individuals to own a slice out of vacation homes and the owners have the liberty to use it as they will. This implies that owners can also rent it out to others when they are not using it.o Timeshares provide the privilege to own vacation property in various destinations at substantially lower costs.o Timeshare properties are equipped with kitchens and laundry facilities which allow the owners to lead an economical time at the properties.Fractional ownerships seem extra attractive to people mainly due to the cost element. The reasons fractional properties are becoming popular are:o As mentioned above, the low cost allows owners to get an interest in the asset for a fraction of the cost that has been paid.o Fractional properties’ interest can be sold or transferred.o Owners of the fractional properties collectively determine the functions of the management companyo The management company takes care of all maintenance issues; this removes a big burden off the owners’ mindso Fractional ownership enables people to lead the lifestyle they dream and enjoy as per the conveniences of the ownersTypes of PropertiesTimeshare properties are generally apartment-style units ranging from studio units to three and four-bedroom units. They include kitchens, a dining area, dishwasher, TV, VCRs and more. Luxury items such as planes and luxury cars have also been incorporated within the timeshare property range.Fractional properties, on the other hand, include a broader range of assets including:o Aircraft and jetso Arto Boats and yachtso Classic carso Corporate hospitalityo Destination and privateo Residence clubso Handbagso Helicopterso Hotelso Lifestyleo Luxury vehicleso Propertyo Racehorseso Spirits and champagneo Sporto Supercarso Vineyards and wineFractional properties tend to appreciate better and financing a fractional property is easier as backs and financial institutions realize the values of these properties.LocationsTimeshare and fractional property ownership is primarily meant for vacation purposes. Thus, the properties bought through these practices should be located in vacation destinations overlooking scenic areas. Examples include beach resorts overlooking the beach, farm houses overlooking the countryside views and so on.Potential BuyersTimeshares and fractional ownership have created a trend of allowing anyone to have a share in exclusive vacation properties and to enjoy the luxurious benefits thereof.o Second Home Ownerso Realtorso Developerso InvestorsAll these people have vested interest in timeshares and fractional properties. Second home owners enjoy the ability to purchase a vacation home for low costs; Realtors can make good commissions out of the sale of timeshares, sales commissions can be as much as 40%-50% for timeshares. Also, developers and investors have opportunities of developing and investing in such properties that are gaining popularity by the day.Fractional and timeshare properties present unique opportunities to buyers to increase the value of their property. The low costs make them exceptionally attractive and the also absence of obligation to continue ownership i.e., ownership can be transferred at any time.

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Why Are The British Purchasing Property In Hurghada?

Distance is a factor.From the mid 2,000′s onwards, British people started to look elsewhere for holidays which could offer them better value for money with guaranteed sunshine, yet not considered long haul.Hurghada is referred to as mid-haul within the Airline industry being only about a six hour flight from the UK and most of Southern Europe.The shorter flying time compared to some long haul destinations is a major factor in why many Europeans choose to come here, with an Airport very close to all major districts in Hurghada, it means a short transfer time between the airport to hotels and residences. Another great reason to consider purchasing property in Hurghada.ClimateThe climate is another reason why people are choosing to purchase properties in Hurghada with an all year around sunny climate and temperatures even in winter rarely dropping below 15c (at night), it seems a natural choice for holidaymakers and long term residents alike.Even in the hottest month of July when temperatures can reach as high as 45-50degrees, the breeze off the beautiful Red Sea is a welcome factor.What to doThe choice of activities is plentiful in Hurghada as it is geared up for tourists of all tastes. Along with the tourists, it attracts long term visitors which helps the Real Estate market in selling more properties in Hurghada.Whether you are more interested in sun, sea and relaxation and wish to spend time on one of the many soft clean white sandy beaches, or adventures such as diving or snorkeling in the wonderful coral reefs of the Red Sea, desert adventures such as camel safaris, quad biking and sand surfing.The choices are endless. More reason to be here and consider buying that fabulous property in Hurghada.Along with this are several main areas such as Sheraton Road district of Sakala and the lovely Promenade at Mamsha where there is unlimited shopping, dining, coffee shops, night life and more.There is also a central Port and Marina where many tourists and locals alike spend time walking, relaxing and getting together over dinner or coffee in the many outlets offering a wide range of cuisines at very affordable prices. Therefore wherever you choose to buy your property in Hurghada, you are very close to all major attractions.Post RevolutionSince the fall of President Hosni Mubarak in 2011, and the continuing unsettled situation that resulted in the expelling of President Mohamed Morsi, it is fair to say that many foreigners were reluctant to travel to Hurghada and several European countries cancelled flights.However, the unrest has not touched the Red Sea resorts and flights to and from Europe have resumed as normal. British and Europeans are still purchasing properties in Hurghada.The current situation (March 2014) in Egypt is far more settled with new elections pending and Egyptians very focused on improving their country and economy. The Government is continually looking to improve the purchasing of foreign investment in purchasing properties in Hurghada.Real EstateSince the crash of the Spanish Real Estate market back in the 1990′s, many British have been looking elsewhere to invest their money overseas.The Spanish situation was problematic due to unscrupulous landlords and councils not being upfront and honest about land rights and purchasing laws and regulations. Therefore, many British lost properties and money invested due to reclaimed land.Elsewhere in Europe, other countries had also increased prices on property purchases due to the introduction of the Euro currency whereas in comparison, prices on properties in Hurghada are extremely competitive.In Hurghada(and all of Egypt), the currency is still their own, known as the Egyptian Pound. It is a fact that countries still operating within their own currencies are better value for money, both on holiday spending and purchasing properties.How easy is it to purchase Property in Hurghada?The good news is, that the procedures here regarding purchasing property Hurghada are very simple. The Government is encouraging many foreigners to invest here, therefore it is in their best interest to make it simple, quick, and honest.It is essential to appoint a good Egyptian lawyer to handle all the details from the Egyptian side as a British (European) Lawyer cannot do all the paperwork from abroad.Land rights here are much more definite and secure, with rights to freehold property fully granted to the buyer on full payment of property in Hurghada.Buyers are often required to pay a deposit on a purchase, which when considering the very reasonable prices on properties in Hurghada, is minimal.Your broker or owner will give you all the information on paper as to the re-payment plan. Cash payments are the norm here, however this is to your benefit as it usually means a discount on the price.This is all good news when considering that all important purchase on property in Hurghada.What types of properties in Hurghada are available?Depending on the buyer’s requirements, there is generally something to suit everyone when purchasing property in Hurghada.The British tend to have different tastes and needs when buying property in Hurghada which can depend on several factors:• Age
• Couples or families
• Budget
• Location
• Type of residence
• Time of year
• Purpose of purchaseIn terms of age, there are many retirees choose to purchase property in Hurghada, using their retirement funds and tend to live here on a retirement long term basis.Often couples will purchase property in Hurghada with an idea of having it as a holiday home where they can come and go throughout the year and often inviting family and friends to use it when they are not there themselves.Another big pull for buyers when purchasing property in Hurghada,is the ‘buy to rent’ system where they can retain a good income through renting their properties out.Budget is another important factor when purchasing property in Hurghada.However, at such good value for money on property prices, even on a smaller budget it’s affordable. It is possible to buy a 2 bedroom property here in Hurghada, for a third of what you would pay in the UK!Location is another decider when purchasing property in Hurghada depending on the buyer’s requirements. For example, a retired couple may wish to buy in a quieter district yet still within easy reach of all amenities and attractions.A younger couple or family may choose to live in a more lively district with all attractions and amenities within walking distance.As Hurghada is an all year around destination, people often purchase property in Hurghada to stay here on a long term basis, while others choose to stay through summer and maybe rent their properties through the winter season which still has potential and another logical reason when purchasing property in Hurghada.Many British come here for a stay of several months before returning home.The better option is to consider purchasing a property in Hurghada as in the long term, it is more practical than renting and not getting any return on your money.British in general, like to be around other British when abroad.Therefore it is good to know that Hurghada has a large community of ex-patriots who have purchased properties in Hurghada and have created their own community including get togethers, magazines, British cuisine etc.When choosing properties in Hurghada as a purchase, there are many choices.The following is a short summary of what is available through Real Estate here in Hurghada:• Studio apartments – usually furnished but available as unfurnished. These can be in either an apartment block or in private complexes and compounds. Some are unfinished and in off- plan residence.• 1-4 bedroom apartments. The same options as the studio apartments with also British compounds available.• Villas – can be a whole villa option, half villa consisting of 1 floor either ground or 1st, or even apartments available in villas, furnished or unfurnished. Also having pool facilities either shared or owned.• Beach or/and town residencies, apartments and villasGetting around HurghadaWhilst there are many districts in Hurghada, close proximity between areas and attractions is small so most areas are reachable by foot or short distances by car.This is another added bonus when purchasing property in hurghada.As there is a large foreign contingency living inHurghada, there are many brands catering for Europeans and British alike. Therefore, local supermarkets often have products to suit everyone.The Senzo shopping mall has a huge supermarket which is reachable by shuttle bus and has many facilities there for retail and food outlets also.Main areas of Hurghada populated with British residents are El Kawther, Mamsha, Intercontinental, Mubarak 6 and Mubarak7.These districts are the home to several British compounds and complexes, along with private villas.English is the 2nd language here in Egypt and as Hurghada is a tourist resort, it is par for the course when speaking with the local Egyptians therefore being another reason why British visitors come back and purchase property in Hurghada.

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There is an excessive amount of traffic coming from your Region.

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Health and Nutrition

What are nutrients?Every molecule in the body is created by Nutrients & there are more than 45 nutrients. These nutrients build molecules, cells, and tissues of the body.We get energy from Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats that we eat.These are called macronutrients. These macro nutrients are broken down / metabolized to give energy to the body.Vitamins and minerals (called micronutrients) are not themselves metabolized for energy, but they are important in helping the macronutrients convert to energy.What is a healthy diet?The optimal diet has to be individualized to meet your unique needs. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) food pyramid suggests that we use fat “sparingly,” and that our daily diet include 2 – 3 servings of dairy products; 2 – 3 servings of meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, or nuts; 3 – 5 servings of vegetables; 2 – 4 servings of fruit; and 6 – 11 servings of bread, cereal, rice, or pasta.These are general guidelines. Healthy diet is dependent upon many factors like: age, gender, body size, pregnancy, and status of health. A clinical nutritionist or nutritionally oriented doctor can help you determine what type of diet is best for you.While you know it is important to eat a healthy diet, it isn’t always easy to sort through all of the information available about nutrition and food choices.Nutrition has a vital importance to human well-being. Nutrition should play a leading role to improve our quality of life. Nutrition is a key for reducing your body fat percentage.Better nutrition means stronger immune systems, less illness and better health. Better nutrition is a prime entry point to ending poverty and a milestone to achieving better quality of life. Safe food and good nutrition are important to all.Basic nutrition knowledge is constantly taking shape every day, producing new diet trends to an ever growing audience of people who want to know the latest and greatest ways to achieve their physical fitness goals.Get nutrition facts and discover how you can use dietary recommendations to improve your health. As you grow older, getting a nutritionally rich diet becomes even more important. The link between nutrition and health is necessary to achieve optimal health.Good nutrition is a clear path to optimize our quality of life. An important starting point for achieving optimum health is to achieve optimum nutrition and get the proper nutrients from the food.Diet and nutrition are the principle preventive measures against diseases.Reading labels and eating a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients is optimal for healthy nutrition. Research confirms that good nutrition in the early years of life is crucial for human growth and mental development.The study of human nutrition dates back to the 18th century, when the French chemist Lavoisier discovered that there was a relationship between our metabolism of food and the process of breathing.The field of clinical nutrition has evolved into a practice that is increasingly incorporated into mainstream medical treatment. The term “nutritional supplement” refers to vitamins, minerals, and other food components that are used to support good health and treat illness.A clinical nutritionist or nutritionally oriented doctor can help you determine what type of diet is best for you.During the initial part of the visit, the clinical nutritionist will ask you questions about your medical history, family history, and personal lifestyle.In hospitals, nutrition is used to improve the overall health of patients with a wide range of conditions. Effects of exercise and nutrition on postural balance and risk of falling in elderly people with decreased bone mineral density: randomized controlled trial pilot study.Healthy LifestyleHealthy people are stronger, are more productive and more able to create opportunities to gradually break the cycles of both poverty and hunger in a sustainable way.Healthy eating is associated with reduced risk for many diseases, including the three leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, and stroke. Healthy eating is fundamental to good health and is a key element in healthy human development, from the prenatal and early childhood years to later life stages.Healthy eating is equally important in reducing the risk of many chronic diseases. We spend a lot of money on food, but there are ways to cut costs and still serve healthy delicious meals.When you choose healthy foods instead of sugary or high-fat foods you can actually improve your health by adding extra phytochemicals and fiber. Breakfast foods should be healthy but they have a tendency to be high in fats and sugar.We always hear that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so why ruin a healthy breakfast.Good nutrition is vital to good health, disease prevention, and essential for healthy growth and development of children and adolescents. Fiber is an important part of a healthy diet.Many of us work very hard to eat healthy meals, but struggle with the urge for candy, cookies, cakes, ice cream and anything else full of sugar and sweetness. Most experts agree that snacking is a part of a balanced and healthy diet, as long as the snacks don’t pile on empty calories.When your best efforts go awry, and you order pizza or serve another meal that doesn’t exactly fit into a healthy diet, you still have many options for making it healthier. Just about everyone knows that fruits and vegetables are a very important part of a healthy diet.Having a well-stocked pantry and refrigerator can be a busy cook’s best weapon in the war against resorting to fast-food, high-fat, unhealthy meals. Fresh oil is a source of essential fatty acids, which help keep the skin healthy and the hair shiny.We believe eating sensibly, combined with appropriate exercise, is the best solution for a healthy lifestyle.FoodsWhen you choose healthy foods instead of sugary or high-fat foods you can actually improve your health by adding extra phytochemicals and fiber. The goal is to balance negative foods with positive foods so that the combined rating for all foods eaten in a single day is positive.If you want to restrict your caloric intake without feeling hungry, find foods highest in any vitamin or mineral or lowest in carbs, saturated fats, or sugars. Our general state of health is partially driven by the types of foods we consume.To make vegetable oils suitable for deep frying, the oils are hydrogenated, so trans fats are commonly found in deep-fried foods such as French fries and doughnuts. Trans fats, beyond a limit, are not good for our health.Hydrogenation solidifies liquid oils and increases the shelf life and the flavor stability of oils and foods that contain them. Other sources of trans fats are vegetable shortenings, some margarines, crackers, cookies, snack foods, and other foods.Since trans fats increase a products shelf life, many pre-prepared foods and mixes (for example, some pancake mixes and pizza dough) contain trans fats.The solution: Whenever possible, eat whole, fresh, and unprocessed foods. When buying packaged foods, put in at least as much time into reading labels and selecting products as you do when choosing a shower gel or shampoo.A good diet is central to overall good health, but which are the best foods to include in your meals, and which ones are best avoided.Fast food has become much more popular of late and all over the world the outcry regarding harms of fast foods is on increase.Be aware that there is little scientific information about the effect of so-called functional foods –foods to which vitamins, minerals, herbs, or other dietary substances are added — despite their growing popularity in the market place and claims of beneficial effects.Some common foods, including nuts, wheat gluten, dairy products, fish, shrimp, soy, bananas and eggs may trigger allergic reactions.FatFats add taste to meals and give one a feeling of fullness when eaten. When you choose healthy foods instead of sugary or high-fat foods you can actually improve your health by adding extra phytochemicals and fiber.Breakfast foods should be healthy but they have a tendency to be high in fats and sugar. The human brain is almost entirely composed of unsaturated fatty acids.You deprive yourself of more than fats when you go for the fat-free or low-fat salad dressing. We need fats to absorb all the beneficial elements of salads and other fruits and vegetables. Learn which are the right types of fats, to create beautiful, supple skin, and a healthy body.Eating more whole foods is a good way to replace many of the processed snacks and foods that have a lot of extra sugar, fat (including trans fat), salt, and other things added to them and a lot of good things taken out, like fiber.In addition to food labeled fat-free and low fat, healthy low fat foods include most fruits and vegetables.Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats (called macronutrients) are broken down (metabolized) to give the body energy.For example, lowering fat and cholesterol intake and adding whole grains to the diet can prevent atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries), which can lead to heart disease or stroke.Fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential components of cells and can protect the heart from, for example, fatal arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythm). Omega-3 fatty acids found in cold water fish (such as herring, tuna, and salmon) have been reported to reduce inflammation and help prevent certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.Safe food and good nutrition are important to all. Basic nutrition knowledge is constantly taking shape every day, producing new diet trends to an ever growing audience of people who want to know the latest and greatest ways to achieve their physical fitness goals.Did you know that you can drastically decrease your chance of heart disease and cancer by eating a healthy diet and following the recommended nutrition guidelines?Proper nutrition is a powerful good: people who are well nourished are more likely to be healthy, productive and able to learn.Good nutrition benefits families, their communities and the world as a whole. Malnutrition is, by the same logic, devastating.

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Biases Surrounding Mental Health

Biases are known to be ingrained in the human nature. Ironically, the bias starts reflecting in our approach to an individual’s health, even if the sufferer is a loved one, as we give priority to physical health over mental health. Many of the biases regarding mental health are inbuilt or are passed on from one generation to another.Social media has a considerable role in propagating such biases. Without proper evidence, many crimes of violent nature, such as shootings, murders, etc., are often ascribed to mental disorders. As indicated by Jonathan M. Metzl, M.D., Ph.D., and Kenneth T. MacLeish, Ph.D., in a 2015 study published in the American Journal of Public Health, most of the mass shootings in America are attributed to mental illnesses, and are often considered the root cause of violence.The stereotype that “all persons with mental illness are violent” add fuel to the prevailing negative mindset against mental disorders. Another deep-rooted stigma regarding mental ailments is that people with some kind of mental deformity are incapable of independent living or doing competitive work. The fact that most physicians suffering from mental disorders such as depression or anxiety do not seek help, fearing that it would hinder their professional life, points at the deep-seated bias related to mental disorders.Whether it is schizophrenia, bipolar or depression, a common perception about these mental disorders is that they are a character flaw. Depression, for example, is seen as sign of a weak-willed spirit. Also, in many instances, it is believed that mental disorders can be set right with attitudinal changes. For example, many believe that children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) need to be more disciplined and spanking is the best way to ensure that they behaved appropriately. Unfortunately, this tendency results in many with mental illnesses to be punished or discriminated against for no fault of theirs.Implicit and explicit biasBias can broadly be divided into two types – implicit and explicit. It is a case of explicit bias when the individual is aware that he or she is biased against a particular person or group and uses it against a perceived threat. For example, painting all immigrants and refugees as potential sociopaths and antisocial elements is a form of explicit bias. According to Alexandra Werntz, University of Virginia and PIMH researcher, people are familiar with explicit biases, and “they are influenced by a lot of different factors, like willingness to disclose and social desirability.”Implicit bias is, however, more difficult to understand because an individual is unaware of its existence. It is beyond the boundaries of one’s consciousness or awareness, but more likely to impact the way one behaves with regard to those with mental health disorders. For example, people showing implicit bias tend to believe that people with mental illness are helpless and negative, and should be blamed for their wrongdoings.Determining the impact of bias on mental health outcomesWhile bias is a common occurrence with regard to mental health, discriminatory behavior because of inbuilt prejudices could have a negative impact on the diagnoses and treatment. Past studies have indicated that many mental health professionals continue to endorse negative biases about mental illness.Apart from the lack of empathy, a constant stigma surrounding mental disorders can result in increased anger and an unwillingness to help the patient in need. It was observed that the attitude of the health care professionals toward mentally ill patients reflected “paternalistic approaches.” While there was an element of empathy involved, in most instances it was believed that patients with mental disorders were incompetent.Mental disorders are treatableWhether it is a depression or an anxiety disorder or a neurodegenerative disorder, mental disorders are certainly not a character flaw. Recovery seems difficult as long as one keeps postponing the need to seek treatment. Understanding the importance of having a sound mental health can give rise to a new perspective on life that would further enhance the quality of overall health.

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Are Americans Getting Better At Living Healthier Lifestyles?

We know that the main causes of disease and ill-health in the United States are heart disease, cancer, obesity, diabetes, disabilities and mental health problems. However, we also know that Americans are now becoming more health-aware than ever before and many are taking steps to make positive changes in their lifestyles.There are now fewer smokers than there were in the 1990s. Not only does smoking contribute to cases of heart disease, it is also one of the main causes of lung cancer and stomach cancer. Healthier lifestyles are also helping with declines in cholesterol levels and more of us are now using our spare time to try activities such as walking or visiting the gym.For the many people who are overweight or obese, more calories enter the body than are used by the body and this causes excess calories to be stored as fat. This is why increased levels of activity are important. Going for a ten-minute walk every day is exercise. Not only does exercise help with weight loss, it also strengthens muscles in the body and improves heart and lung function. Exercise also releases endorphins in the brain and these endorphins work like a natural ‘Prozac’ making us to feel better. For those who lose weight, it is also important to continue with healthy eating and exercise as this helps to keep excess weight off.There is plenty of information out there on healthy eating and there are recipes available to suit all tastes, cooking skills and budgets. Not only is how much food we eat, or the quantity of food, important in losing or maintaining a healthy weight, our diet also needs to be ‘balanced’. This means that we should be eating lower fat meals and around a third of our daily diet should contain fruit and vegetables. These contain important molecules such as vitamins that help the body to not only carry out its functions properly, but also assist in fighting disease and ill-health.Drug abuse remains common among all ages, including teenagers and the use of drugs has a serious impact on healthy lifestyles. Drugs such as MDMA, marijuana, cocaine and amphetamines affect not just individuals but also those around them. Data from 2010 shows that students from as low as eighth grade have used crack, cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamine and non-prescribed Ritalin and Adderall. Some people also abuse drugs such as alcohol and tobacco as well as prescription drugsFor many people alcohol is something to enjoy on a night out, or as the odd glass of wine with a meal, but for others, alcohol can become a problem. Alcohol not only causes long-term health problems, it can increase the risks of injuries and even death from accidents. Alcohol is a factor in around 50% of severe trauma injuries as well as 40% of motor vehicle accidents, suicides and falls.As part of a healthy lifestyle, drinking should be within the low-risk limits of no more than 4 drinks a day, or 14 drinks a week for men and no more than 3 drinks a day or 7 drinks per week for women. Even within these limits, individuals should be aware of their own health, any medications they may be on, or if they are pregnant.Maintaining a healthy lifestyle also has many other benefits, including keeping the immune system functioning properly, helping to keep stress levels down and improving our sleep quality. Because the chances are good that we will live longer, it means that this is now the time to consider whether we can become better at living a healthier lifestyle.

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Simple Home Repairs Can Make a Major Difference When Putting Your Home on the Market

Simple home repairs can make a major difference when it comes to a homes resale value. A fresh coat of paint can really brighten a room, and make it feel fresh The big bonus about simple repairs is that you will be able to do most of them yourself for a small amount of money, and when you do a few of them, they can completely change the response you will get from potential home buyers. Just a little elbow grease and small home repair budget can make the process of selling your home faster, easier, and much more enjoyable.Potential buyers can be quickly turned off by wallpaper, but you can easily fix the wallpaper issue. As a general rule when selling your home it is best to keep the walls neutral, allowing the buyer to see a blank canvas. The simple solution is to steam off the wallpaper and paint the walls. A spray bottle with an equal amount of liquid fabric softener and water will work to remove wallpaper as well. This fix will not cost a lot and will make a huge difference. Make sure the ceiling is also free of any cracks or stains. This type of change can go a long way in making a home feel fresh and new.In terms of the exterior, simple repairs can be made. Planting seasonal flowers can improve the look of the home from the outside. Check the condition of your shutters, touch up the porch. Having the exterior in the best condition will create a great impression before the potential buyer even walks into the house. Potential buyers often make up their minds before they even walk through the door. Having the exterior of the house in its best condition will give the buyer the feeling the home is low maintenance.Simple home repairs can also include rearrangement of furniture. If you don’t already have pads on the legs of your furniture add them now, so when you move the furniture the floors are not scratched. Once the decision has been made to put your house on the market it has now become a product that should be staged to appeal to a broad audience. Making your home neutral and welcoming will attract a variety of different potential buyers. Just a few simple repairs can pull a home together and make your home sell more quickly.

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Finding Automotive Wiring Diagrams

As an owner of a car, I find myself becoming educated on the subject of automotive wiring. Since I am just about the last person who should be playing with anything that has electrical current running through it, I was hesitant to attempt to tackle the issue of automotive wiring.However my vehicle decided otherwise when it started to randomly select electrical systems that it wanted to me tamper with. When the electric seat belts started to slide back and forth without reason as I drove down the highway, I decided I better figure out how to tamper with the electric systems, considering the exuberant rate of automotive repair.I found myself with a decision to either, break down and spend $100 an hour for a so-called expert to look at it and try to repair it, or I could learn how the electrical system of my car worked. Considering my level of ignorance I probably was going to try to conquer the impossible. After all the only thing I knew about electrical systems is that AC/DC was a rock band and that dummies and wiring usually did not get along.However despite my reluctance, I set out to learn what I could about automotive wiring. I quickly learned that there is a huge supply of information available on the subject of automotive wiring. A quick search on Google provided me with an array of information. There are many different levels of sites offering information.Some sites provided a basic overview of the average electrical system of most cars. A company named Long Island Customs offered some great basic information. They stated that their information was simply for a basic understanding and not for a detailed explanation of particular models. However they actually provide some thorough information on basic systems such as AC and lighting. They also provide some great trouble shooting information.Another site for general information on electrical systems is TBud.com. This educational website offered general programs on electrical systems in their integrated publishing section.AllDetailDIY.com considers itself the leading source of professional diagnostic information. They offer full diagnostic flow charts of automotive electrical systems. Their charts offer both system and component perspectives.I found a great site for individual systems that covered all American made cars from 1985 to 2009.Wiringdiagram.com breaks it down by system, such as headlights, computer data lines and AC systems. Their individualized charts start at $5.99. They also offer information on 1960-1984 models starting at $6.99. They print the information into an Adobe PDF document and offer rushed service guaranteed to provide you with the diagrams for your particular car in less than 24 hours.Bulldog.com offers a basic explanation of electrical information in an MS Word document; however they do not supply charts or schematics.Two other sites that I found to offer great information were Freeauto.com and 12voltresource.com. Freeauto.com provides complete color diagnostics for most makes and models. What I found interesting(?) is freeauto will provide you these color automotive electrical charts and all the other information on their informative website for $11.99. They also assist you with basic electrical theory, electrical harnesses and test equipment.12voltresource.com offers a CD-ROM that contains wiring systems for every car from 1979 to 2009, for only $17.98. They also offer CD-ROMs and instant downloads for specific models of cars. They only charge $14.98 for this information.I also decided to look around to see if I could find manufacturers’ manuals that offer automotive electrical diagrams for particular makes and models. What I found was that Haynes Auto Repair Manuals offer a repair manual for just about every major make and model of car. These thorough repair manuals explain every system on particular models in an easy to understand format. I found that these manuals offer electrical charts for their models. I found Haynes manuals available at several sources including their own website for $24.95 and Barnes and Nobles for $22.95 with a membership. The best deal I found on these manuals was Books-A-Million, who offers most Haynes manuals for only $16.45.So whether you are like me and you don’t know the first thing about automotive electrical systems or even if you are educated in electrical systems you will find these sources to be of great help. If you still desire additional information you may want to contact your local car dealer or mechanic.

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