Category: Celebrity

Celebrity /

DAY FOUR OF THE 2024 ESSENCE FESTIVAL OF CULTURE™ PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA® 

Day four of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® concluded the 30th birthday celebration of the cultural milestone with another round of sunrise to sunset unforgettable moments with appearances during daytime events from actress, singer, and producer Keke Palmer, voting rights activist Stacey Abrams, charttoping Afrobeats singer and actress Tiwa Savage, legendary comedian, host, and actor Rickey Smiley, iconic actress Regina Hall, award-winning R&B singer, songwriter, and dancer Mya, TV personality and entrepreneur Karen Huger, actress and TV personality Garcelle Beauvais, actress and producer Marsai Martin, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, and more! The nighttime performances gave us an incredible show with 2024 festival headliner and global icon Janet Jackson, alongside performances by Victoria Monét, SWV, Tank and The Bangas featuring Teedra Moses, Hasizzle, and Dawn Richard, and a special tribute to Frankie Beverly and Maze curated by Bryan-Michael Cox.

On the final day of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™, the daytime experiences ended in celebration with highlights including:

  • Producer and author DeVon Franklin led Sunday Service featuring performances by Xavier University Choir, Dillard University Choir, Warren Easton Charter High School Choir, and the NFL Players Choir on the ESSENCE Stage™.
  • Award-winning actresses Anika Noni Rose and Jenifer Lewis shared the importance of multigenerational storytelling from the big screen to the trailblazing Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort on the ESSENCE Stage™.
  • Following the celebration of Hip-Hop 50, iconic femcees Rapsody, Lady London, and Mia X joined the ESSENCE Stage™ to explore the emerging generation of women in Hip-Hop and what’s next in a culture during a conversation moderated by DEDE McGuire.
  • Legendary comedian, host, and actor Rickey Smiley joined ESSENCE Authors™ for a conversation on his upcoming book, which explores his personal journey of navigating loss and embracing faith, followed by actor Jay Ellis sharing insights on holding space for complex truths with creativity.
  • Legendary singer Mya and celebrated wellness coach Queen Afua discussed their life changing journey to using food as fuel through veganism during a fireside chat at the ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival™.
  • NPR Tiny Desk Concert creator Bobby Carter stopped by the SUEDE: Men’s Experience™ (formerly known as In His Zone) to share the behind-the-scenes of the increasingly growing roster of artists and icons who have performed at the platform, followed by seasoned sports journalists Stephen A. Smith and Jemele Hill leading a discussion of the state of Black representation in sports broadcasting. 
  • ESSENCE Wellness House® concluded the exploration of the intersectionalities of healthy lifestyles by delving into the mysteries of African astrology with Samuel F. Reynolds.
  • Senior Beauty Editor at Well+Good Aimee Simeon, media personality Chanen Johnson and ESSENCE Lifestyle Editor, Victoria Uwumarogie explored how beauty routines have adapted in their lives after becoming mothers at BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition.
  • The AFROPUNK BLKTOPIA™ stage was a utopia of musical performances and artistic rebellion, immersing audiences into a world that dismantles oppressive stereotypes. Notable celebrities like Samuel Reynolds, TREYYPOUND, and Kanene Ayo Holder graced the stage, mesmerizing attendees with their Afrobeats vibes.
  • Notable speakers and panelists at the NEW VOICES ENTREPRENEUR HUB™ included industry leaders such as Co-Founder of SHE Breaks Barriers  Breonna James, Empowerment Expert and Founder of Aware Network Corp Kenyatta “Young” Nelson, and CEO and Founder of The Powerhouse NYC  Aneilia Murphy in shared insights on building successful ventures, accessing funding, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
  • ESSENCE® GU® CREATORS HOUSE hosted an array of renowned content creators, industry experts, and cultural icons for an unforgettable day including Taty Cokley, Clarke Peoples, Karen Huger and Rayvin Huger. The event showcased a dynamic lineup of discussions, and experiences focused on elevating the voices and stories of Black creatives. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking conversations on the future of content creation, the impact of social media on personal narratives, and the importance of representation in all forms of media. 

The highest grossest performer in the 30-year history of ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™, global icon Janet Jackson, took music devotees on a journey through her career, followed by the a farewell and tribute performance to the legendary Frankie Beverly and Maze curated by the multifaceted Grammy-award winning producer and songwriter Bryan Michael-Cox featuring surprise performances by Grammy-award winning R&B singer Anthony Hamilton, R&B singer and songwriter Bilal, Grammy-nominated R&B songstress and songwriter Lil’ Mo, and chart-topping R&B group Jagged Edge. Alongside performances from Grammy-award winning singer, producer, and songwriter Victoria Monét with special guest Lucky Daye, legendary R&B group SWV, a tribute to rich cultural heritage of New Orleans musicians featuring Grammy-nominated musical group Tank and the Bangas with Teedra Moses, Hasizzle, and Dawn Richard. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: (L-R) Bridget Kelly, Corey Stokes, SVP, Creative, Essence Ventures, Zerina Akers and Sergio Hudson speak during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: Mya performs onstage during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: (L-R) Tiffany Cross, Crystal Mason, Andrew Gillum, Jasmine Crockett and Angela Rye speak during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: (L-R) Richelieu Dennis, Founder & Chairman, Essence Ventures and Tarun Malkani, CEO, PDC Brand speaks during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: D-Nice speaks during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07:(L-R) Romney Edwards, Kendyll Locke, Sesha Joi Moon, Jasmine Crockett, Adjoa B. Asamoah and Jennifer Willis attend the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: (L-R) LeLee Lyons, Coko and Taj George from SWV perform onstage during Day 3 of the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola at Caesars Superdome on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: Frankie Beverly receives a gift onstage during Day 3 of the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola at Caesars Superdome on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: Ayanna Pressley attends during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

Beauty /

DAY THREE OF THE 2024 ESSENCE FESTIVAL OF CULTURE™ PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA

Day three of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® continued to serve attendees with unforgettable daytime experiences with appearances from the first Black woman Vice President Kamala Harris at the Global Black Economic Forum HQ in a candid “Chief to Chief” conversation with ESSENCE Ventures President and CEO Caroline Wanga. One of the greatest athletes of all-time, an entrepreneur and style icon Serena Williams made her debut during the history of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® during BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition and inaugural ESSENCE Black Women in Business Dinner.

Vice President Kamala Harris held a candid “Chief to Chief” conversation with ESSENCE President and CEO Caroline Wanga at the GBEF® HQ Experience stage. For 50 years, ESSENCE has taught Black women how to unleash their power shared by Wagna. With less than 122 days left before the election for the next Presidential administration in the United States, Harris urged attendees of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® to enter rooms with their shoulders back and chin up.

Ernest N. Morial Convention Center was filled with an indescribable joy that festival-goers could experience as day three continued with a full spectrum of unmatched daytime experiences. Highlights include:

  • A full day of panels at the ESSENCE Stage™, including:

o    Actress Emayatzy Corinealdi and actors Morris Chestnut and McKinley Freeman provided fans with a behind-the-scenes look at Season 2 of the Hulu series Reasonable Doubt during a fireside chat.

o    Actor Aldis Hodge delved into the mind of Detective Cross and shares how his version of the popular character encapsulates brotherhood, family, and Black love. 

o    Producer Carlos King kept it real(ity) with some of the biggest names in Black Reality TV, the pioneer of bounce Big Freedia, entrepreneur Yandy Smith-Harris,  entrepreneur and TV personality Toya Johnson-Rushing.

o    Mothers of two of the biggest superstars in NBA history, Sonya Curry and Lucille O’Neal, alongside Michelle L. Rice, President of TV One and CLEO TV engaged in a candid conversation around nurturing the talent and minds of children destined for greatness.

  • One of the greatest athletes of all-time, an entrepreneur and style icon Serena Williams made an appearance during BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition in a conversion on channeling her passions into a profitable business model on and off the courts.
  • New Orleans rapper Treety, singer and songwriter 4Batz and the “City Cinderella,” Miami-bred chart-topping femcee JT gave performances at the ESSENCE® GU® Kickback, hosted by actress and entrepreneur Skai Jackson and content creator Raymonte.
  • Legendary actress and producer Sanaa Lathan, award-winning actor Morris Chestnut, trailblazing author, writer and thought leader dream hampton, actress Meagan Good brought Black Hollywood to New Orleans during a candid conversation at ESSENCE Film Festival® by ESSENCE STUDIOS™.
  • Actor Lance Gross and TV personality, host, and actor Terrance J. explored how their education at a HBCU influenced their successful Hollywood careers at the Suede: Men’s Experience™ (formerly known as In His Zone).
  • The ESSENCE Authors™ experience on Saturday, July 6th, featured an impressive lineup of authors and literary voices. Notable participants included politician Bakari Sellers, romance pioneers of romance novels Beverly Jenkins, Brenda Jackson, and Donna Hill – showcasing a diverse range of topics and genres, highlighting the richness of contemporary literature and the importance of storytelling in shaping culture and understanding.
  • The NEW VOICES ENTREPRENEUR HUB™ offered practical workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities,  and featured a vibrant celebration of Black entrepreneurship. Attendees engaged in insightful discussions with renowned founders and business leaders, including fashion icon Tracy Reese, and technology expert Iddris Sandu. The day’s programming culminated in a captivating keynote address by branding expert Mellody Hobson, who shared invaluable lessons on building successful businesses.

This inaugural ESSENCE Black Women in Business Dinner brought together an exclusive group of Black women across making strides across varying industries and fields for a private ceremony at the Four Seasons New Orleans honoring Serena Williams (Investor of the Year Award), Thasunda Brown Duckett (CEO of the Year Award), Esi Eggleston Bracey (Transformer of the Year Award), and Laysha Ward (Community Investment Pioneer Award). As the leading global brand for Black women, ESSENCE launched “Black Women in…” as a series of events to highlight the achievements of Black Women pioneers to applaud the monumental successes and contributions they continue to make. Given the challenges Black women in business face, we are thrilled to continue our tradition of celebrating our own by hosting an exclusive ceremony that will bring together notable women across industries and fields, ESSENCE senior executives, stakeholders, partners, and major media outlets.  Notable attendees include  activist Reverend Al Sharpton, businesswoman Valeisha Butterfeild, entrepreneurs Derek Hayes, and Pinky Cole. The 2024 ESSENCE Black Women in Business Dinner was hosted by Rashida Jones and sponsored by Entergy, Diageo, and Visa.

During nighttime performances, Grammy-award winning singer USHER gave a special one-night only performance of his generation defining album Confessions in its entirety. Legendary R&B singer and 8x ESSENCE Festival performer, Charlie Wilson, returned to the stage for the 8th time in the history of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola®, alongside performances from one of the best DJs of the culture D-Nice in a special presentation of his global sensation, Club Quarantine Live, featuring icons of hip hop, latin jazz funk, R&B and soca including Method Man, Sheila E, Big Boi, Donell Jones, Tweet, Machel Montano and Lloyd and the highly anticipated reunion of R&B supergroup, TGT (Tyrese, Ginuwine & Tank).

Beauty /

Keke Palmer’s MET Gala Smile From Dr. Victoria Veytsman

Keke Palmer stunned on the MET Gala carpet showing off her dazzling smile thanks to cosmetic dentist Dr. Victoria Veytsman. The actress visited Dr. Victoria Veytsman for a whitening treatment to get red carpet ready ahead of fashion’s biggest night.

Known for her Smile Makeovers and for creating beautifully restored smiles, Dr. Victoria Veytsman uses innovative and personalized treatments for each client. Dr. Victoria Veytsman also counts Barry Keoghan, Angela Bassett, Hailey Bieber, and John David Washington as clients.

Celebrity /

SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY: Red Carpet Recap

NFL STARS SHINE BRIGHT: SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION HOSTED BY CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER AND TICHINA ARNOLD HONORS C.J. STROUD, DAMAR HAMLIN, MARKQUESE BELL, NATE BURLESON, AND ESSENCE GLASS CEILING BREAKER AWARDEES DASHA SMITH, KIMBERLY FIELDS, AND SANDRA DOUGLASS MORGAN.

Super Bowl Soulful Celebration, formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), is founded and executive produced by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few. Conceived in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The evening brings together an ensemble of NFL players, gospel/contemporary Christian performers, comedy, and award-winning musicians spanning all genres on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, hope, laughter, and uplifting messages of inspiration.

Celebrity /

JUST BELIEVE: THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY SCORES BIG WITH 25 YEARS OF STAR POWER

THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY prepares to illuminate screens nationwide for its Silver Anniversary broadcast as a special one-hour program on CBS Television Network* on Saturday night, February 10, at 8 pm ET/7C.

Taped in front of a live audience on Wednesday, Feb. 7 at Pearl Concert Theater, Palms Casino Resort during Super Bowl LVIII week, this milestone event is hosted by the dynamic duo of Cedric the Entertainer and Tichina Arnold, stars of the CBS hit series “THE NEIGHBORHOOD.” Anchored in the theme of “Just Believe,” the show features performances from artists T-Pain, Rachel Platten, and Mickey Guyton, who join previously announced acts Earth, Wind & Fire, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Robin Thicke, and The Players Choir are in the blockbuster talent lineup. Resonating with faith, football, and the belief that every obstacle can be transformed into an opportunity for greatness, this celebration of music is also a testament to the power of collaboration between art and corporate goodwill. A diverse slate of corporate and philanthropic partners have joined the broadcast, adding to its depth and meaning with a series of uniquely sponsored segments.

Crown Royal, a brand rooted in generosity, will present the “Lifetime of Inspiration” award to former partner, NFL player, CBS Mornings Co-Host and Host of NFL Today, Nate Burleson. Crown Royal will make a meaningful donation of $25,000 from The Crown Royal Generosity Fund to an organization personally selected by Mr. Burleson. Nate, a symbol of inspiration on and off the field, will receive this prestigious honor presented by football legend Fred Taylor. Amazon Prime steps forward to present the “New Beginnings” spotlight, honoring Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin. His story of resilience and family triumph will be shared in a powerful segment, reflecting the spirit of overcoming obstacles and finding new beginnings. C.J. Stroud, a rising star from the Houston Texans, will be honored with the esteemed “Faith in Action” Award. This recognition underscores his commitment to philanthropy and community service through the C.J. Stroud Foundation, which has become a force for meaningful change and exemplifies the profound impact athletes can have in creating a better world.

P&G brands play a significant role in shaping the SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY experience. Leading the way is Febreze, bringing its unique touch to the celebration with an electrifying performance by the legendary Kirk Franklin and the all-NFL Players Choir, featuring the Southern University ‘Human Jukebox’ Band Drumline. In addition, Febreze proudly collaborates with the talented Howard University alumna designer, Rachel Motley, to create custom-designed cardigans that add a stylish and distinctive flair to the musical experience, ensuring that the performers are “Fresh as Febreze” while on stage. Mielle and King C. Gillette will host a beauty and grooming lounge to get all of the honorees and performers ready for their big moment.

Super Bowl Soulful Celebration will introduce the inaugural “ESSENCE Glass Ceiling Breaker Award presented by Mielle.” This award, as part of ESSENCE Black Women in Sports, recognizes outstanding women of color who have shattered barriers in the NFL and will be introduced by Caroline Wanga, ESSENCE Ventures President & Chief Executive Officer. Monique Rodriguez, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Mielle, will present this prestigious award to honorees Dasha Smith and Kimberly Fields from the NFL, and Sandra Douglas of the Las Vegas Raiders. These women, excelling in the field of sports, have paved the way for many others. The award presentation is a momentous highlight, continuing Mielle’s focus on inclusion and empowerment. In addition to music, the broadcast highlights partnerships, shared values, and a commitment to uplifting communities. Lexus brings its ethos of blending performance and soulful experiences, becoming a resonant voice in the celebration. Comforting Peanut Butter M&M’s will sponsor the “HBCU Spotlight,” shining a light on Markquese Bell, a Dallas Cowboys star and HBCU graduate of FAMU. Vibrant Emotional Health and former NFL player Brandon Marshall, CEO of I Am Athlete, share a powerful message on mental fitness with a call-to-action urging viewers to dial 988 if experiencing mental health challenges. The Huntsman Family Foundation, a Utah-based nonprofit, stands up for mental wellness and eradicating stigma, aligning its mission with a dedicated on-stage moment and message of hope presented by James Brown, veteran sportscaster and host of NFL Today.

In this collective moment, the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration amplifies a message of compassion and support. Disney helped Atlanta Falcons player Calais Campbell and his non-profit Charles Richard Campbell Foundation to create a magical experience, gifting a deserving family with a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to Disney World. Palms Casino Resort serves as the sponsor for red-carpet arrivals, adding an extra layer of glamour to the festivities. PlayersTV and Lionsgate will also play a vital role in supporting and enhancing the evening, contributing to the tapestry of the SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY. For a quarter-century, THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION has captured the hearts of millions through the shared love of music, faith, and the exhilaration of football. Bridging cultures and igniting inspiration, the Super Bowl LVIII-sanctioned special brings together NFL players with award-winning artists and acclaimed musicians from diverse genres onto a single stage. The result is an unforgettable evening that transcends boundaries and remains the sole multicultural and inspirational program sanctioned by the NFL during the electrifying Super Bowl week.

Tickets for THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY are on sale now and available to the public via Ticketmaster.com. Additionally, to mark this special occasion, exclusive commemorative 25th Anniversary limited-edition merchandise is available via the event’s official website SuperBowlSoulful.com, or on-site at the special taping in Las Vegas, allowing attendees to take home a piece of this historic celebration. Follow us @superbowlsoulful for updates and information. THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY is executive produced by Melanie Few, with Valarie Benning Thompson serving as producer. Veteran television creative Leon Knoles serves as Director, with Grammy-nominated artist Adam Blackstone serving as music director. *Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live but will have access to on-demand on Pluto TV and CBS.com the day after the special airs.

About Super Bowl Soulful Celebration

SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION, formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), was founded and executive produced by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few. Conceived in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The evening brings together an ensemble of NFL players, gospel/contemporary Christian performers, comedy, and award-winning musicians spanning all genres on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, hope, laughter, and uplifting messages of inspiration. For more information and updates, visit SuperBowlSoulful.com or follow @superbowlsoulful on social media platforms.

Accessories /

Fashion Icon Tameka Foster Raymond: From Heartache to Triumph, Empowering Mothers and Women 

Get ready to be blown away by the legendary fashion icon Tameka Foster Raymond as she re-enters the spotlight armed with her groundbreaking memoir.
“Here I Stand . . . in a Beautiful State” is a deeply compelling narrative that not only unveils Tameka’s remarkable journey from heartache to triumph but also serves as a beacon of hope for mothers and women seeking to overcome past traumas. In her memoir, Tameka Foster Raymond peels back the curtain on a world where misconceptions give way to truth, where fashion transcends boundaries, and where she shares personal encounters with the likes of Lauryn Hill, along with styling anecdotes and humorous social media escapades.
But that’s just the beginning. Tameka courageously opens up about her intimate healing journey, including the heartbreaking loss of her son Kile and the excruciating custody battle with ex-husband Usher Raymond IV. Her story showcases how growth can emerge from the depths of pain, proving the indomitable power of resilience. For her book’s re-launch, Tameka Foster Raymond is teaming up with RIAA Diamond Certified Music Producer, Drumma Boy, to create an electrifying Audible version. Brace yourselves for a dynamic audio experience that will deeply resonate with your audience, blending storytelling and music into a unique fusion.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of Tameka Foster Raymond’s incredible journey from heartache to triumph. Get ready for an extraordinary experience that will leave your audience inspired and enthralled.
Celebrity /

The Most Common Mental Health Disorders

1 in 8 people are believed to be currently living with a mental health disorder. While there are many different forms of mental health disorders, some are much more common than others. Below are some of the most common forms of mental health disorders, how to spot the symptoms and how to treat them.

Featured Photo from Worth

Generalised anxiety disorder

Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is possibly the most common mental health disorder. It is a form of anxiety that is affected by lots of different triggers as opposed to just one thing. 

People with GAD tend to worry a lot, and these worries can end up becoming draining and debilitating. It’s possible that you have GAD if:

  • You get anxious about many different tasks and situations and feel constantly on edge
  • Anxious thoughts are keeping you up at night and distracting you from tasks during the day
  • Your worrying is having a negative impact on relationships, work or school

GAD symptoms can range in severity from mild persistent worrying to full-blown panic attacks. In all cases, it’s important to do something about it in order to stop it getting worse. It’s worth looking into professional treatment for anxiety if symptoms are severe. If symptoms are mild, you may be able to explore your own forms of anxiety relief such as breathing exercises, listening to music or taking herbal remedies. Do not turn to alcohol or drugs in order to treat GAD.

Post-traumatic stress disorder

PTSD is another type of anxiety. It is triggered by a traumatic event which could range from childbirth to being a victim of a violent crime. It is estimated that 1 in 3 people who experience a traumatic event develop PTSD. 

Some of the symptoms of PTSD include:

  • Constant nightmares and flashbacks of the traumatic event that keep you up at night and distract you during the day
  • A fear of certain situations or places that is detrimental to everyday life (such as not wanting to get into a car after a road accident)
  • Feelings of isolation or guilt that cause you to become morose and irritable

There are many treatments for PTSD that you can explore. Some people are prescribed antidepressants, while therapy is recommended for others. PTSD is often at its worst when the event is still fresh in one’s mind, but will usually gradually fade over time. However, for some people it can get worse over time – this is when you know that you need to get professional support. Solutions like support groups can be very beneficial. 

Depression

Depression is not just sadness. It is a sense of resentment and hopelessness that lasts weeks or months. Depression is often triggered by certain events, however, those who have a history of it or family with depression may be prone to more random episodes. 

You may have depression if:

  • You are losing interest in things that once brought you joy and do not feel hopeful about anything
  • You feel constantly tired and have no urge to look after yourself
  • You have lost your appetite and your sex drive
  • You waste away the day sleeping or find it difficult to sleep at all due to depressed thoughts

Like other mental illnesses, depression can vary in severity. Some people just feel constantly dispirited, while others can feel there is no point in living at all – which can lead to suicidal thoughts. While you should seek treatment in all cases, it’s particularly important to reach out if you are thinking of harming yourself. There are many ways to overcome depression including lifestyle changes (such as developing a strict routine and exercising), antidepressants, therapy and socialising with people whose company you genuinely enjoy.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects many people and involves obsessive thoughts and behaviours that end up negatively affecting everyday life. Unlike GAD, people with OCD often carry out specific rituals that seem excessive or nonsensical to other people. This could include routinely cleaning things that are already clean, checking that a door is locked multiple times every night or avoiding stepping on cracks in the pavement.

Not all obsessive behaviours are a problem. However, OCD is worth treating if:

  • You find yourself missing appointments or are late to work/school due to lengthy OCD rituals
  • Your relationships become strained because of your obsessive thoughts and behaviours
  • Your physical health is being affected (for example, you’ve developed dermatitis from constantly cleaning your hands)

Therapy is the best way to treat OCD. Using professionally recommended techniques you can help to overcome obsessive thoughts and behaviours. 

Beauty /

Covergirl Alexis Skyy: Journey to Transformation, Healing, and Success

Alexis Skyy

Pivoting from a cast member of Love and Hip-Hop to the emerging multifaceted businesswoman gracing our timelines today, Alexis Skyy literally started her spiritual transformation right before our eyes. Accrediting her daughter with being a major influence for her holistic transformation, she has intuitively created the haircare line, The Hair Pot as an initial generational wealth builder for her firstborn Alaiya Grace.

Not only is Alexis curating ventures in hair care, real estate investment, and fashion, but the highlight of her journey is she is bringing other women along for the ride to spiritual healing. Creating safe, digital, and in-person spaces for trauma survivors to speak openly of their past experiences, Alexis is utilizing her platform of over 5 million followers to be an inspiration to women young and old.

Celebrity /

Jordin Sparks Carries Warmies While Wearing Losano

Singer and actress Jordin Sparks were spotted wearing a cozy Losano set while holding on to her son’s Dinosaur Warmies ($29.99, https://warmies.com/) and Baggallini All Day Backpack in Faux Shearling ($125, https://www.baggallini.com).

The American Idol and Dancing With the Stars alum accessorized Losano’s Monterey Hoodie ($179) and Monterey Joggers ($179, www.losano.com) with Paradigm’s Russell in Rust sunnies ($145, https://paradigmeyewear.com/) and Astrid & Miyu’s Crystal Hinge Hoops ($105, www.astridandmiyu.com).

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Mariah Carey Shares Photo With Daughter in NYC

Mariah Carey shares a photo with her daughter Monroe as they were in NYC on Saturday, October 22nd, 2022.

PHOTO CREDIT: Mariah Carey via Twitter
About Mariah Carey
MARIAH CAREY is an author, entrepreneur, philanthropist, producer and multiple award-winning artist and songwriter. She is the best-selling female artist of all time with more than 200 million albums sold to-date and 19 Billboard Hot 100 #1 singles (18 of which are self-penned) – more than any solo artist in history. With her distinct five-octave vocal range, prolific songwriting, and producing talent, Carey is truly the template of the modern pop performance. Mariah is also an inductee to the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and has been recognized with multiple Grammy Awards, numerous American Music Awards, three Guinness World Record titles, both Billboard’s “Artist of the Decade” and “Icon” awards, the World Music Award for “World’s Best Selling Female Artist of the Millennium,” the Ivor Novello Award for “PRS for Music Special International Award,” and BMI’s “Icon Award” for her outstanding achievements in songwriting, to name a few.                                                        

Carey’s cultural impact has transcended the music industry to leave an indelible imprint upon the world at large. In 2009, Carey was recognized with the Breakthrough Performance Award at the Palm Spring International Film Festival for her critically acclaimed role in Lee Daniels’ “Precious.” A Congressional Award recipient, Carey has selflessly donated her time and energy to a range of philanthropic causes near to her heart including Save the Music, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, World Hunger Relief, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, among many others. A tremendous supporter of children’s charities, both domestic and international, Carey founded Camp Mariah in partnership with the Fresh Air Fund, a retreat for inner city children to explore career development. In 2020, Mariah’s riveting memoir The Meaning of Mariah Carey was recognized as a New York Times #1 bestseller upon release. In 2021 she announced the launch of her foray into the world of spirits with Black Irish – an Irish cream with a name that serves as a playful nod to her family heritage.