Ask A Therapist

Open enrollment is your opportunity to review your health insurance options and make sure your coverage still meets your needs for the year ahead.__________ In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, health insurance advisor Davion explains what open enrollment is, who it applies to and how to evaluate your health insurance options with confidence. Learn how to compare plans, understand th...

In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, fitness coordinator Octavia shares practical advice for getting started with fitness and staying motivated. Learn how to set realistic goals, add movement to a busy schedule and recognize progress beyond the number on the scale. Octavia also discusses overcoming gym intimidation, adapting activities for different physical abilities and balancing c...

In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, BlueCross recruiter Erica offers an inside look at the application and hiring process. Erica explains how recruiters support applicants, what qualifications matter and why tailoring your resume can help you stand out. She also shares common application mistakes, interview preparation tips and guidance on cover letters, LinkedIn profiles and profes...

In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, we sit down with health coach Kylah to discuss practical ways to improve your health through small, sustainable changes. From nutrition and exercise to stress management and better sleep, Kayla shares realistic tips that fit into busy schedules. She explains why perfection isn't the goal, how healthy habits are built over time and why simple c...

Health insurance can feel complicated, but understanding the basics can help you make more informed decisions and get the most from your benefits. __________________________________________________ In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, we sit down with BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina customer experience expert Stephanie to discuss what members need to know about their health in...

What does it take to build healthier, stronger communities across South Carolina? In this episode of Ask: Always Stay Knowledgeable, we talk with Elizabeth about community relations at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and how the company supports nonprofit organizations, employee volunteerism and long-term partnerships across the state. The conversation explores how BlueCross invests in area...

In this episode of “Ask A Therapist,” Dr. Jennifer Heath, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, explores the critical issue of vaping among teens. Dr. Heath discusses the short-term and long-term impacts of nicotine on the developing brain, the link between vaping and mental health issues like anxiety and depression, and the social consequences of vaping. She also provides valuable insights for par...

In this episode of Ask A Therapist, we are joined by Dr. Jennifer Heath, a child and adolescent psychiatrist. We jump into the reasons why teens start smoking, whether it’s vape pens or traditional cigarettes. Dr. Heath discusses the impact of peer pressure, stress, and anxiety on teen smoking habits, and the misconceptions teens have about e-cigarettes. We also explore the health risks associated...

In this episode of Ask A Therapist, Dr. April Richardson breaks down everything you need to know about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). From common symptoms and types to treatment options and how it differs from anxiety, this episode is packed with practical advice and insights. Tune in to learn more about managing ADHD in both kids and adults. To see what mental health resources y...

In this episode of Ask A Therapist, Stacey Edmond-Tyler discusses the crucial connection between mind and body. She covers the importance of sleep, nutrition, and exercise for cognitive and physical development, addresses common misconceptions and offers practical advice for fostering a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Anyone struggling with mental health should call the number on the back of their...

This episode of the Ask A Therapist podcast explores the powerful connection between mental and physical health. Learn how positive thinking, mindfulness and meditation can boost your well-being. Discover the link between gut health and mental wellness and get practical tips for managing long-term diseases by nurturing your mental health. Tune in for expert advice and actionable insights to enhanc...

In this episode of Ask A Therapist, we discuss anxiety with our guest, Dr. Bryan Fox. As an expert in mental health, Dr. Fox shares his valuable insights into the different elements of anxiety, from identifying common triggers to exploring the most effective treatments available. We break down the science behind anxiety, discuss practical strategies for managing symptoms, and provide general knowl...

In this episode of Ask A Therapist, we talk about anxiety with our guest, Dr. Bryan Fox. As an expert in mental health, Dr. Fox shares his valuable insights into the different elements of anxiety, from identifying common triggers to exploring the most effective treatments available. We break down the science behind anxiety, discuss practical strategies for managing symptoms, and provide general kn...

In this episode, we talk about trauma and its far-reaching effects on mental health. Our guest, Anitra Doughty-Wages, licensed social worker and health coach, sheds light on how traumatic experiences can shape our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. We explore the signs and symptoms of trauma, unpack its impact on different aspects of mental well-being, and, most importantly, discuss valuable copin...

In this episode, we discuss trauma and its far-reaching effects on mental health. Our guest, Anitra Doughty-Wages, licensed social worker and health coach, sheds light on how traumatic experiences can shape our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. We explore the signs and symptoms of trauma, unpack its impact on different aspects of mental well-being, and, most importantly, discuss valuable coping s...

In this episode of Ask A Therapist, we tackle the often-overlooked topic of men's mental health. Dr. Brian Still, a leading expert in the field, joins us to break down the stigma surrounding seeking help and explain the crucial connection between mental and physical well-being. Anyone struggling with mental health should call the number on the back of their insurance card for resources. Follow...

In this episode of Ask A Therapist, we tackle the often-overlooked topic of men's mental health. Dr. Brian Still, a leading expert in the field, joins us to break down the stigma surrounding seeking help and explain the crucial connection between mental and physical well-being. Anyone struggling with mental health should call the number on the back of their insurance card for resources. Follow...

How does a medical diagnosis affect mental health? A medical diagnosis like cancer or diabetes can affect a person's mental health. In this episode, we discuss treatment options and what friends and families can do to help their loved ones. We are joined by Dr. Jennifer Pender, who has more than 19 years of medical experience.

How does a medical diagnosis affect mental health? Getting a serious medical diagnosis like cancer or diabetes and even minor conditions can affect a person's mental state. In this episode, we discuss the mind and body connection with special guest Dr. Jennifer Pender. Pender is a medical director at BlueCross and has more than 19 years of medical experience.  Anyone struggling with mental hea...

What treatment options are available for someone who is struggling with substance abuse disorder and mental health? And when should friends and family get involved to help? We spoke with Dr. Zach Stroud to get the answers for part 2 of our podcast conversation addressing the connection between substance abuse and mental health. Dr. Stroud is triple-certified in general psychiatry, addiction medici...

How do substance abuse and addiction affect mental health? That’s the topic of our new podcast episode with special guest Dr. Zach Stroud, who is triple-certified in general psychiatry, addiction medicine and adolescent psychiatry. Anyone struggling with mental health should call the number on the back of their insurance card for resources.

Managing our mental health can be a challenge, especially as we grow older. Older people face the same mental health challenges as younger populations, but also deal with issues like dementia. Fortunately, there are resources for seniors struggling with their mental health. We spoke with geriatric psychiatrist Dr. James Bouknight about how seniors can find the mental health care they need.

As we grow older, our health priorities change. Our mental health priorities might shift, but maintaining good mental health is important at any age. We spoke with geriatric psychiatrist Dr. James Bouknight about some of the challenges older people face when it comes to managing their mental health.

Experts are growing more concerned about a connection between excessive social media use by teens and mental health problems. Medical director Dr. Jennifer Heath shares what parents can do to help and how to set health boundaries for balancing online and offline activities.

Excessive time spent by teens on social media has been linked to poorer mental health outcomes like depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Medical director Dr. Jennifer Heath spoke with us about why teens and young adults are more at risk and what warning signs to look for.