#ive been prioritizing other groups this year

[ssongsboo]

this pic is literally so insane i have way too many things to say rn so ill just say park jongseong pick me take me [🫦🫦] choose me love me

[bitchthefuck1]

We as a society need to acknowledge the psychological toll of being the only woman in a friend group willing to argue back when the guys start saying sexist shit. I deserve financial compensation.

[ankhisms]

signed up for auditions for midsummer nights dream for another local theater group which i havent done anything with before (they havent had any auditions for any shows that i would be interested in/have any roles that would suit me until now) and i feel a bit nervous..

midsummer is a very special play to me it was the play i saw when i was little that made me fall in love with stage theater and got me started acting in the theater i grew up in, i was in a production of it in the theater i grew up in aroind 2016 as helena and i feel like that was one of my personal favorite roles ive done and i still do one of the monologues of helena for auditions but i dont really want to necessarily play helena AGAIN u know i just really would like. any part.

i hate feeling like im being bitter bc i dont want to be bitter or jealous or anything but it does kind of feel like in my local theater community 1. the theater college students of the big university are prioritized for roles because the uni has this weird thing where undergrad students arent allowed to perform in their shows which is frankly fucking absurd and on one hand i understand wanting to give the theater students experience due to that but like ive said before that theater groups arent upfront about favoring the uni students for auditions but once you notice that everyone casted in main roles is a student at the uni you cant stop noticing it yknow and theres been times where i know for certain that someone else who wasnt a uni student auditioned and couldve done the role better but was passed up for a uni student who didnt do as good of a job 2. in the theater that ive acted in its like they keep just casting the same 10-15 people in stuff even though theres a large amount of people auditioning and it seems like thats the case for the other local theater companies as well and its really frustrating because like yeah those 10-15 people are good actors, or at least id say most of them are, and the majority of the ones ive worked with are very nice people and good to work with and they deserve to get roles but its also like. okay i think maybe we should stop giving this one person the lead role every single time they audition and maybe give someone else a chance yeah.

all this to say im gonna try my best at my audition but im not about to get my hopes up when ive been auditioning for as many local things as i can for like the past two/almost three years now and have only gotten casted in two shows and then one special reading performance that i just did. im not about to give up bc this is my dream in life but it feels frustrating at times

[upismediacenter]

OPINION: STOP THE E-JEEP! #NoToJeepneyPhaseout

Commuter or not, every Filipino is familiar with jeepneys. Once dubbed “King of the Roads”, jeepneys are a symbol of Philippine culture and resourcefulness, as they were made from converted jeeps left by American troops after World War II. As the most popular public transport vehicle in our country for decades, these jeepneys are now at risk of disappearing, causing public uproar.

The controversy surrounding the phasing out of jeepneys first sparked in 2017 when the government launched the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP). The program’s goal is to replace the old model jeepneys with modern electronic jeepneys (e-jeeps) that are claimed to guarantee cleaner emissions and improved safety. This has been met with several worries that could adversely affect the Filipino populace.

Public unrest over the jeepney phaseout has been going on for years. The consolidation deadline for Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) which included jeepneys, UV Expresses, and Filcab units was extended three times. The first was due to the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple protests from transport groups, which affected the government’s original plan to consolidate PUVs in March 2020. As a result, it was rescheduled at the end of last year, December 31, 2023. The second extension was on January 31, 2024, to allow unconsolidated PUVs to ply their routes with the stipulation of being barred from joining cooperatives and corporations. The third and “final” deadline was on April 30, 2024—three months after the last deadline—to allow driver-operators one last time to consolidate, or else they would not be allowed to ply their routes. Amid these several deadlines, protests and strikes are unwavering as dissents push for the PUVMP to be suspended, arguing that imposing deadline extensions does not address the structural problems of the modernization program.

One day before the “final” deadline, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) declared that unconsolidated jeepneys have a 15-day leeway to continue their usual routes before they are impounded. Again, this is another smokescreen from the systemic issues brought by the modernization program. The PUVMP must be suspended, as it ostensibly presents more problems than solutions. If the PUVMP truly is for the people, why is there a persistent and contentious pushback by the public?

Enforcing deadlines and giving grace periods for jeepney drivers only delays—the government must suspend the PUVMP and reevaluate its effectiveness. Displacing and disenfranchising jeepney drivers from their livelihoods defeats the purpose of an inclusive and sustainable program as the PUVMP endorses itself to be.

Who are those affected?

Jeepney drivers are most affected by the modernization program. If they choose not to consolidate with cooperatives and corporations or cannot afford an e-jeep alone, their vehicles will be impounded, taking away their only source of income. Additionally, commuters, UP Diliman constituents, and other sectors also have to bear the cost of the PUVMP due to the policies and funds allocated to this program.

The transport group for jeepney drivers, Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide, more commonly known as PISTON, is the leading opposition group against the PUVMP. First established in 1981, PISTON serves as an organization that aims to promote the welfare and democratic rights of jeepney drivers. In 2013, they launched a campaign against the oil price hike, directed at the country’s main petroleum companies, namely Petron, Shell, and Chevron. Since the government has revealed plans to phase out jeepneys over 15 years old, they have been organizing protests against the PUVMP, criticizing its anti-poor policies and prioritizing for-profit corporate consolidation.

The PUVMP pressures jeepney drivers to switch to e-jeeps or new combustion engine vehicles that meet Euro IV emission standards which only permit carbon monoxide (CO) emissions of 1.0g/km for gasoline and 0.5g/km for diesel vehicles. Units and parts that make up the e-jeep are imported from other countries, which is why they are priced as high as PHP 3 million. While the modernization program offers subsidies of PHP 160 thousand through loan programs by the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) to help offset the costs, this amount is only 5.7% of the total cost of a modern jeepney. Jeepney drivers state that they will need to make around PHP 3.5 thousand each day to pay off the debt from switching to an e-jeep, but at the moment, they only make around PHP 2 thousand a day.

The large amount of money that needs to be spent transitioning to modern e-jeeps is the main concern of dissent to this program. Replacing a huge fleet of jeepneys requires massive resources, taking away from vital sectors such as education and healthcare. Additionally, the PUVMP disproportionately affects low-income citizens—specifically, jeepney drivers who mostly come from low-income families and struggle to meet the high e-jeep cost. The debt burden forces them to work longer hours just to break even, negatively impacting their livelihood. Jeepney drivers worry that the transition to e-jeeps or new combustion engine vehicles will exacerbate their financial burdens and force them to work longer hours just to break even.

Furthermore, units from local manufacturing companies such as eFrancisco Motor Corporation and Sarao Jeepneys are still priced at around PHP 2.5 million, further putting jeepney drivers at odds with the financial burden of the PUVMP. With large corporations dominating the market and the PUVMP’s policy to consolidate driver-operators to cooperative-led fleets, this raises concerns of corporate takeover and the economic marginalization of jeepney drivers. Since large companies are the ones who have the capacity to fully adhere to the program, jeepney drivers are left disenfranchised because of their financial disadvantage.

Commuters are also affected heavily by this program. Modern jeeps usually charge higher fares because, aside from the initial cost of modernization, their maintenance and repair costs are higher than the traditional jeepneys’. This adds more financial problems to Filipinos already facing higher living expenses as a result of inflation rates. Moreover, unfamiliar technology could present a significant challenge for traditional drivers transitioning to modern jeepneys, leading to potential operational difficulties and increased maintenance expenses.

Constituents of UP Diliman (UPD) share similar concerns. The UP Transport Group (UPTG), which consists of jeepney drivers from all routes around the campus such as Ikot, Toki, UP-Pantranco, UP-Philcoa, and UP-Katipunan, organized a silent strike on December 13, 2023, in protest of the earlier December 31 deadline. Based on interviews with the UPD Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs Roehl Jamon, UP jeepney drivers may have to comply with the modernization. According to Jamon, the only two options they have are for the university to pay for the units themselves, which cost about PHP 1.4 to 3 million each, or for the university to partner with transport cooperatives that already own modernized units and invite them to service the campus, which is the less expensive option between the two. Although the latter is cheaper, this still gives way for corporations to take advantage of the modernization program.

Jeepneys are extensively used by UP college students and students of UP Integrated School (UPIS) for commuting to and from the university campus because they charge less than other PUVs. However, these fares could be completely changed by the PUVMP’s effect on jeepney availability and rates, possibly altering their daily commutes by making them spend more on transport alternatives or by forcing them to look for different routes. This might put additional financial burden as well as longer hours of travel in their everyday life, affecting not only their academic performance but also their general welfare.

Moreover, the PUVMP is taking attention and funding from other sectors that have more pressing needs. In particular, the Department of Education (DepEd) is significantly impacted by lack of funding. Classroom and teacher shortages have been notable areas of concern with an estimated 165,444 classrooms and nearly 90,000 teachers needed. According to DepEd, PHP 105 billion would be needed each year up until 2030 to address the classroom shortage, while PHP 5.6 billion would be needed to hire 20,000 teachers in the upcoming school year, as discussed in the Senate plenary deliberations on the proposed 2024 national budget. Aside from the education sector, the Department of Health (DOH) has been grappling with vaccine shortages, namely pertussis, which has led to 54 infant deaths since the beginning of the year. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in 2022, the Philippines was among the top 5 contributors to the 18 million zero-dose children in the world. Despite this and multiple warnings from health authorities, the Philippines still hasn’t fully addressed this vaccine gap, leaving one million unvaccinated Filipino children vulnerable and susceptible to life-threatening diseases such as polio, measles, and tuberculosis. In light of these issues, resources should be prioritized in these matters instead of the PUVMP. Action must be taken immediately to address these pressing concerns and ensure the well-being of the Filipino people.

Are E-jeeps really the “better option”?

According to a study by the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED), jeepneys only make up about 2% of the total registered vehicles in the nation and PUVs only contribute about 15% of the total particulate matter emissions in Metro Manila. If the PUVMP aims to transform our public transportation into becoming more sustainable and environmentally friendly, this number does not justify the relentless pressure on jeepney drivers to consolidate. The PUVMP will only contribute 2% to the country’s vehicles that cause pollution. This raises the question of the significance of its impact on saving the environment and reducing emissions in the long run. Additionally, modern jeepneys still run on fossil fuels, such as petroleum oil, defeating the purpose of the program’s goal of creating a more environmentally friendly public transport system. In the same study by CEED, it was argued that solely focusing modernization efforts on jeepneys to reduce air pollution would be negligible. Taking this into account, the government should instead consider upgrading traditional jeepneys to meet the proposed emission standards which would be cheaper for the program.

Furthermore, as said in a paper by the UP Center for Integrative and Developmental Studies, drawing from the current rate of assembly of modern jeepneys, it will take an estimated 270 years before all traditional jeepneys in the country are replaced. This begs the question of why the government keeps enforcing deadlines when it will take almost three centuries before all jeepneys are replaced with e-jeeps.

The PUVMP, while well-intentioned, presents a flawed solution. The environmental costs being too high, the unjust burden on the poor, and the uncertain consequences of such a drastic transition are strong arguments for reconsideration. The government should consider other options like rehabilitating existing jeepneys and using cleaner-burning fuels. One example that can be improved with the government’s help is the rehabilitated jeepney proposed by the Libmanan Transport Service Cooperative (LIBTRASCO). This model includes all government-specified features of the modernized jeepney—such as a side door, a higher ceiling, bigger windows, and even stabilizers to account for the increased height. Compared to e-jeeps, these rehabilitated models only cost around PHP 400 thousand to PHP 500 thousand, making them more affordable for jeepney drivers. Though the rehabilitated jeepney still uses the jeepney’s diesel engine, it can still be adapted to use a Euro 4 engine and even include air conditioning. If the government chooses to work with LIBTRASCO and retrofit the rehabilitated jeepney as an alternative, the Philippines can then improve its transport system while keeping its traditional jeepneys and people’s livelihoods by prioritizing affordability, inclusiveness, and a sustainable future.

Modernization shouldn’t be at the expense of the workers. The primary reason why many are aggressively opposing the program is that the welfare of jeepney drivers was not carefully considered when they should be the center of the solution. For the past years that the modernization program has been implemented, instead of listening to the pleas and concerns of jeepney drivers, commuters, and other constituents, the government has kept imposing the jeepney consolidation and resisting any demands by the public.

Taking all of this into account, we must request the government to prioritize policies that consider the money and power of all citizens, especially those from poor backgrounds. This includes subsidizing the move towards modern vehicles or examining other options that do not oppress marginalized communities. Instead of pushing jeepney drivers to consolidate and buy e-jeeps, the government should consider exploring and supporting initiatives that use cleaner-burning fuels and retrofitting existing jeepneys to meet emission standards to help maintain the environment in its sustainable state without overhauling the iconic jeepney fleet.

Above all else, this transition must be led by the workers—jeepney drivers whom the public has relied on for decades. Development must be made with the public in mind, not without.

// by Kela Alcantara & Xia Mentes

References:

Abarca, C. (2024, March 21). Calabarzon, Metro Manila top classroom shortage list – DepEd. INQUIRER.net. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1921036/fwd-on-public-classroom-shortage#:~:text=The%20estimated%20total%20number%20of,country’s%20classroom%20shortage%20by%202030

Ansis, JC (December 14, 2015). "Piston: Continuing to fight for the transport sector". CNN Philippines. https://web.archive.org/web/20190131083905/http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2015/12/14/piston-protests-continuing-to-fight-for-transport-sector.html

Bautista, P., Moya, R. (2023, September 3). Jeepney modernization program: Drivers have a steep price to pay. Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/09/03/2293549/jeepney-modernization-program-drivers-have-steep-price-pay

CEED Office. (2018, November). Just Transition in the Philippines. CEED. https://ceedphilippines.com/just-transition-in-the-philippines/

Conde, M. (2019, November 16). Transport coop makes pitch for ‘affordable, safe’ rehabilitated jeepney. RAPPLER. https://www.rappler.com/nation/244909-camarines-sur-transport-cooperative-rehabilitated-jeepney/

Dimalanta, R. Atienza, J. Samonte E. (2023). Putting Transport Workers and Commuters First: The Route to Just Transition in Public Transport Modernization. UP CIDS Policy Brief. ISSN 2619-7286.

Gatarin, G. (2024), Modernising the ‘king of the road’: Pathways for just transitions for the Filipino jeepney. Urban Governance. 4(1). 37-46. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ugj.2023.11.002

Golez, P. (2024, January 24). Marcos extends jeepney consolidation deadline til April 30. POLITIKO. https://politiko.com.ph/2024/01/24/marcos-extends-jeepney-consolidation-deadline-til-april-30/daily-feed/

Latoza, G. (2023, December 15). What are UP’s plans for commuters amid PUVMP? Tinig ng Plaridel. https://www.tinigngplaridel.net/up-transport-puvmp/

Magramo, K. (2024, January 16). Philippines jeepneys: Will the loud, colorful vehicles soon disappear from the roads?. CNN. https://edition.cnn.com/2024/01/16/asia/philippines-jeepney-phase-out-strikes-intl-hnk/index.html

Mendoza, T. C. (2021, February). Addressing the “blind side” of the government’s jeepney “modernization” program. University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Developmental Studies. 1-69. ISSN 2619-7456.

Mondoñedo-Ynot, L. (2024, April 10). April 30 is final deadline for Puv Consolidation. SunStar Publishing Inc. https://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/april-30-is-final-deadline-for-puv-consolidation

Ombay, G. (2023, November 9). DepEd lacks nearly 90,000 teachers - Pia Cayetano. GMA News Online. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/887851/deped-lacks-nearly-90-000-teachers-pia-cayetano/story/

Pabustan, D. (2017, September 21). Euro 4, what does it mean and why do we need it?. AutoDeal.https://www.autodeal.com.ph/articles/car-features/euro-4-what-does-it-mean-and-why-do-we-need-it

Philippine Daily Inquirer. (2024, April 14). DOH’s Lack of Vaccine Urgency. INQUIRER.net. https://opinion.inquirer.net/172935/dohs-lack-of-vaccine-urgency

Presidential Communications Office. (2024, January 24). PBBM approves three-month extension of PUV Consolidation. https://pco.gov.ph/news_releases/pbbm-approves-three-month-extension-of-puv-consolidation/

RAC. (n.d.). Euro 1 to Euro 6 guide – find out your vehicle’s emissions standard. https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/emissions/euro-emissions-standards/

Relativo, J. (2023, December 28). Unconsolidated jeepneys, UV Express “allowed to operate” until Jan. 31, 2024. Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/28/2321963/unconsolidated-jeepneys-uv-express-allowed-operate-until-jan-31-2024

Relativo, J. (2024, April 30). Unconsolidated jeepneys given “15-day leeway” after consolidation deadline. Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/04/30/2351543/unconsolidated-jeepneys-given-15-day-leeway-after-consolidation-deadline

Reyes, R. O. (2024, January 29). Jeepney drivers rejoice “partial victory” for phaseout extension. SunStar Publishing Inc. https://www.sunstar.com.ph/tacloban/jeepney-drivers-rejoice-partial-victory-for-phaseout-extension#:~:text=approved%20the%20extension%20for%20franchise

Rivas, R. (2023, March 7). In numbers: Why jeepney phaseout is anti-poor, will do little for environment. RAPPLER. https://www.rappler.com/business/numbers-why-government-phaseout-jeepneys-anti-poor-do-little-environment/

Santos, J. (2024, February 7). Consolidation extension is not what the protest demands. Philippine Collegian.https://phkule.org/article/1106/consolidation-extension-is-not-what-the-protest-demands

[beautifulpersonpeach]

It's cold and dreary and the tannies are gone,,, *cries in the corner* But the re-debuting (?) efforts for 2 cool 4 skool (I definitely didn't know how to spell this lol) is so heartwarming!! I just feel warm and fuzzy inside, you know?? Do you know if these fandom efforts are typical for kpop groups? I don't know what to expect for this ms era. I keep seeing articles and discussions that talk about who'll fill in the gap that's left by bts. It's not that I'm super worried (I know exactly where I stand), but I just don't know what will happen next as a whole. I quite enjoy the current army atmosphere. It makes me think that armys are the best when they are working towards a goal. Would you be able to share what are the things that ppl (who's never been through something like this) should keep in mind moving forward for the next 6month-1.5year? Thank you so much!

***

Yeah, re-charting old songs is something more than a few fandoms do from time to time, but ARMYs’ aim of re-charting several old songs, sometimes whole albums, at once and methodically - that’s something I don’t think has been done before. And yes it warms my heart to see the fandom give BTS this. Even though it’s more of symbolic gesture than ‘huge achievement’, it’s a tangible way the fandom can express that we intend to stick by BTS this entire time. Life might happen, we might explore other groups and hobbies or take some time to ourselves, but we’ll never really abandon BTS or forget them while they’re in service. It also allows the fandom the opportunity to re-experience BTS’s old music. It’s reminding me of why I fell in love with them in the beginning.

And you’re right. The fandom does need a goal to work towards. One of the first things I said on this blog that I remember people got mad at me for (lol), was that I think many ARMYs are just Type A k-pop stans who prioritize BTS. A lot of us do well with targets and performance measures, using information and ingenuity to achieve desired goals for someone we love genuinely gets us going. When the fandom is aimless people go crazy. So yeah, keep ARMYs busy and peace will be reasonably attainable.

It seems HYBE intends to keep milking the fandom too - more documentaries are coming, at least four members will release new music over the next 1.5 years, we might get a Jin tour/showcase or Hobi live performances, etc. So I guess we’ve got nothing to worry about on that front.

I’m not too sure myself what to expect between now and 2025. Last week I talked about what usually happens when a group enlists based on what I’ve observed:

1. Some people take a break away from k-pop fully.

2. Some explore other groups, whether or not they end up stanning as well.

3. Some people stay in k-pop and remain only committed to BTS

All three options are valid and sometimes there’s no real difference between how people approach options 2 and 3.

But really, while the guys are in the military I don’t expect the infighting within the fandom to reduce. At best it’s going to remain this annoying for the next 18 months. I know people are hopeful we get more spaced out releases but I’m actually expecting some stacked line-ups in releases next year. I’m also not expecting Seven/Golden-style promotions for any member that doesn’t release under HYBE America. The usual suspects (akgaes, shooters, antis, shippers) will be whining in any case so it’s going to be a pain.

And outside the fandom, I know the race is going to be mad. Right now ATEEZ, Stray Kids, NewJeans, RIIZE, Aespa, VCHA, Katseye, IVE, SHINee, Blackpink and few more… are revving up to take over in 2024. I’m so curious to see all the ways these groups/their companies will try to fill the BTS vacuum. How they will try to court ARMYs and pitch themselves as the rightful successors to BTS.

I’m not really sure what to expect but I know it’s going to be a fun time that’s for sure.

[sylsaccount]

rare ramble post

it is so hard to be like. yes i am a trans woman. yes i believe that i am biologically male. yes i hate males and i am literally kam about everything. yes i do not think of myself as a man but if someone were to ask me "does kam include all male people in general" i would say yes bc its kind of biased for me to say no and i dont think its worth it to spend the resources to figure out the like 0.001% of good ones. not that kam is a thing i realistically believe in just like. theoretically you know. idk.

its weird trying to live mostly separatist but not earnestly being part of the group u wanna separate with you know? and like. i literally dont believe in gender yet i am a gender haver. that is simplifying it for sure, its not like the way i think about things isnt consistent, but on the outside it seems like i dont make any sense. i dont get along with most rad-aligned ppl for obvious reasons, and i dont get along with other trans people for obvious reasons. ive met a lot of detrans folks lately that i get along with, but i am not and i doubt will ever be detrans myself.

ig i should say i dont get along with trans women, not trans people lol. ive known plenty of trans men over the years, some of which have been close friends. the truth is 99% of trans women act "like males", at least in my experience. and like. i just cant deal with that lol

i just made a post saying im the only real gender abolitionist so its kind of funny that i say "like males". i am not a biological essentialist nor do i like calling behaviors "masculine" or "feminine". yet any woman reading this knows exactly what im talking about. even the ones that claim to be the "good ones" that are "actually women" etc. are walking caricatures. if i have to see one more instance of that hsts slaaay yassss motherrrrr i love sabrina carpenter shit i will blow my brains out (you are fortunate if you have not encountered this group. i personally find them just as evil as those knee sock programmer catgirldick types)

i cant help but wonder if someone similar to me from an outside perspective would judge me the same way, u know? a lot of my interests are stereotypically male, i am autistic, i am kind of an asshole. ofc at the end im always like. well i have actual feminist values and i cant stand males and i always prioritize women over everything so like. its just me being anxious over nothing i think.

this is mostly unrelated but ive also been thinking a lot abt the ppl who follow me. ive had an influx of followers as of late, but there r others who have followed me for a long time. its kind of funny looking through... i have ppl that i know for a fact hate trans ppl. me being trans is not something ive ever specifically hidden, but its also not something i bring up a lot. i just realized bc of that weird anon the other day that its the first time ive explicitly mentioned it on my blog in a couple years. i couldnt help but be worried abt it! at the same time, i have some old friends i dont rly talk to anymore... a couple of which, despite knowing that i am respectful towards other individual trans ppl and that i am not truly transphobic, im sure have taken issue with the types of things i reblog and strongly personally disagree. yet as im looking over who im following, it doesnt look like ive lost mutuals from either camp.

id like to talk to more people too. its hard to dm people for me, as i think it is for many people here. i have some mutuals i would love to talk with, but i am kind of an ass, and they are kind of an ass, and thats why we follow each other, so its like... they may not even wanna be bothered like that u know? i know what its like when u have some coworker or acquaintance u like well enough but then they start trying to be buddy buddy with u and they become a nuisance. i dont wanna be that!!! i am extremely misanthropic myself so its easy to imagine being on the other end

my friend group (some irl and some online) has a little discord group chat we use. we just added someone new and its been very nice. i really do love meeting new ppl when i vibe with them...

u could say. sylvia why dont u just go meet people irl. well, unfortunately, i cannot tell people irl that i have extremely regular homicidal fantasies and think 50% of the population should kill themselves. i cant rant abt all the dystopian shit i am subjected to on a regular basis, bc they dont view it as dystopian. i cant even discuss my own life and perspectives on things because SOMEONE is going to have their feelings hurt (despite me being the one who has trauma abt it -_-). on the computer there are lots of intelligent people with interesting lives who r also kind of losers and hate everything. i like those people.

i dont rly have a point on any of this. just thoughts ive been having.

[hamausagi]

YES IT IS LIKE THAT AND NOW I WANT ALL OF THEM FOR YOU TOO I AM EYES EMOJING U SO HARD RN

YAYAYAY I AM EYES EMOJING YOU TOO

What is your nickname?

i don't really have one these days, but i suppose jake or august are still two of my favorite names i go by ^^

When is your birthday?

10/21/03 <3

What was your longest relationship?

1 year and 2 months (ended) (thank god)

What is your favorite book?

six of crows - leigh bardugo !

What is something you're insecure about?

the way i speak LMAO i cringe so much hearing my own voice or hearing the things i say. i feel like im so socially awkward and i hate it so bad 😭😭😭

5 Male celebrity crushes

uhhhhhh i dont rlly keep up with celebs like at all anymore but i used to be literally head over heels for chris pine when i was younger HELP

5 Female celebrity crushes

ZENDAYA and maybe saorise ronan ???? (help me i dont rlly care abt celebs)

What is your dream job?

concept/character artist for a game company !!!! (and to make my own games) (which i am currently working on)

What do you consider your biggest accomplishment?

finding out about my dream college last september after literally never knowing about it prior (besides a friend making an offhand comment abt it in like. 2017 that i forgot abt), finishing a portfolio in less than 2 months, and getting accepted LMAO

What is a fact about you that nobody would believe?

i used to play indoor and outdoor soccer year round, my indoor team competed in a lot of big brackets for the state (i now play no sports and i can barely go up more than 2 flights of stairs or run more than a few meters without dying) (thank you asthma and anemia 💪)

What were your highs and lows for this last month?

highs: FINSHED MY FRESHMAN YEAR OF COLLEGE WAHOOOO passed all my classes 🔥 made some new friends :D (and regained some old)

lows: uhhhhh mental health struggles mostly

Where is somewhere you'd like to visit?

i reeeeeaaalllyyyy really wanna go to japan so bad. im literally japanese and ive never been there, and i have family there ive never met that i want to see

How do you de-stress?

sleeping, drawing, playing some games, bothering the bf, gams with friends (unless its helldivers) (then i am stressed more)

What are your favorite apps besides tumblr?

pinterest my beloved <3

Describe yourself in one sentence.

good intentions, but poor execution

What do you think makes you attractive?

uhhhhh i have big eyes, smallish waist ???? i really try and prioritize other people (help i rlly dont know how to answer this)

What is something you're really good at?

drawing :3

What is something you're really bad at?

cooking LOL (im trying to get better)

A time that you told a lie.

telling the kid in my prj group that it was okay after he apologized for being literally the worst group member i have ever worked with (he literally did NOTHING and almost cost us the project several times)

What's a totally random and useless fact that you know?

bearded dragons can puff their eyes out along with puffing their chins when they get scared or feel threatened (thanks to ron for scaring the absolute shit out of me one day) (i thought he was dying)

Who knows you the best?

either my bf or my irl best friend :3

What is your most prized possession?

a wooden box my dad mae me a really really long time ago. that or this little sterling silver flip flop necklace my grandpa gave me a few years before he died when i was a kid

What is your longest friendship?

with my irl bsf, been friends 13 years now

When did you first feel like an adult?

either when my dad finally started actually swearing when talking to me or when i changed my car's oil myself for the first time

Do you/ Have you played any sports?

played soccer for like 11 years and did archery for 5 :3

How are you feeling right now?

im really tired and my cramps are killing me 👍 but im chillin

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

night owl even tho i rlly wish i was an early bird so bad. no matter when i go to bed or how many hrs of sleep i get its so hard to wake up before 9 am bro

Do you believe in love at first sight?

for ocs? yes. irl? absolutely not

Favorite song lyrics right now?

literally loving all the lyrics in a feeling - whxami but more specifically i am thinking abt waiting room - phoebe bridgers "if you were a teacher, i would fail your class take it over and over til you noticed me if you were a waiting room, i would never see a doctor i would sit there with my first aid kit and bleed"

also saw a robin edit to espresso - sabrina carpenter and now my brain is IM WORKING LAAAAATEEEE CAUSE IM A SINGERRRRRRR

What does self care look like for you?

taking showers and making myself food. i hate actually taking showers but the post shower untainted clean feeling is so unmatched bro its the best

Describe yourself with 3 singers.

RONEN, wave to earth, and two door cinema club

What makes you nervous?

meeting friends of friends (meeting new people is fine but its scarier if someone i know is introducing me), going to people's houses that i don't know very well

What’s a pet peeve you have?

trying to talk to someone but getting dry ass responses or no response at all

What will always make you cry?

bro. those tiktoks that are like. "if you know yourself which one are you picking". oh my god. those destroy me so bad

What kind of first impression do you think you make on people?

i honestly have zero idea bro 😭😭 if im meeting people at school im probably a little overwhelming (im loud asf at school) but if like. im meeting my friends parents or my bfs friends. i am a ghost

[ginnsbaker]

Ginny baby I’m having a mini-crisis

I think I like my best friend and I don’t know how to go about getting rid of this. I’ve known her for 7 years and throughout that time I’ve had two separate occasions where I developed feelings for her, first time not that serious but I can’t say that about the second time. Admittedly the second time I surely panicked briefly but the feelings faded both times, what always followed after was that I’d feel insane for even believing I could feel that way about her in the first place.

BUT now it’s back and I’m in a sort of denial about it? I talked about it with another author here before but we ultimately chalked it down to it just being attraction. Now I’m scared that’s not the case?

Last night I went clubbing with some close friends but I ran into (let’s call her Wanda I guess?) while waiting in the line to get in. Wanda looked so damn good, I’m already shorter than her normally but she’d was in all black wearing her platform shoes along with a skirt and a blouse. Wanda and I are touchy drunks(with other friends too) but the way that we’d been last night had me feeling something. Whenever Wanda and I would talk, we’d lean our bodies closer together and start talking directly into each others ears, her hands finding mine after the start of every sentence- one would assume we were doing that because we couldn’t hear one another but it wasn’t loud and when we’d talk to the people around us we’d stay firmly in place. Wanda went out with three friends and one of them was this guy who I knew liked her, I thoroughly enjoyed the fact that he saw me holding her and talking to her in a way that looked intimate.

I didn’t really think much of it last night cause I’d been focused on having a great time, but now that it’s day I’ve realized all of that really put a different angle to the perspective I once had about what I was feeling and why. I hate it, i want it to go away because I’ll always prioritize maintaining our friendship above anything else, this is not something I’ll ever admit to anybody I know but I guess I’m saying all this because I wanted to ask if you’ve ever been in a similar situation and how did you cope? How did it play out for you?

Somebody once told me it might only be attraction and a gauge that I could use to see if it was is imagining a future with them and I wish they hadn’t said that. I’d genuinely believed it was just attraction but I’ve been thinking about that question all day today, the answer to that question has my heart racing at the imagination of it all, but I swear I’d been indifferent to it when I’d first been asked.

The less I think about it, the more I ignore it, the less it feels real so thanks for letting me rant to you gonna go back to gaslighting myself out of this(SI SE PUEDE). Needed to get all this off my chest. 😮‍💨

omg sorry I was already asleep when this went in.

*wears calliope's hat* before we proceed i have a couple of questions:

how long have you known you're attracted to your bestfriend? was it even before you were friends?

have you been in relationships with other women?

(disclaimer: im not a therapist of any sort im just experienced when it comes to being gay cause ive been gay since i was 2 and now im almost thirty lol)

I'm assuming she's straight? so here's my #1 piece of advice is: NEVER FALL FOR STRAIGHT GIRLS

fine, there might be few instances where falling for straight girls will eventually shake their sexuality and give us a shot, but dude, that very rarely happens. Fics, movies, tv series love to portray them often but in reality.... NO.

Feelings for bestfriends WILL pass. I assure you that. Cause yea, I've been in your shoes. I met my best friend in college during sophomore year, and we were from different groups of friends and I intentionally got to know her because I had a crush on her (turns out later on, she also has a crush on me, but it's the type of crush where she finds me pretty so it's basically straight people crush). She had a boyfriend when we became close/bestfriends and I was hang up on her for two years before the feelings finally went away.

Now she's married, and she's still my bestfriend and everytime I think about the past where I was very attracted to her, I'd laugh.

I coped by just letting it run its course. And definitely being interested in someone else helps. Go out there, meet new people, get to know new people. You have the luxury of using a dating app without being judged for it (in the 2010s that's not the case).

Again, whenever possible: DO NOT FALL FOR STRAIGHT GIRLS

The less I think about it, the more I ignore it, the less it feels real so thanks for letting me rant to you gonna go back to gaslighting myself out of this(SI SE PUEDE). - Dude, keep thinking about it. exhaust yourself. go through the drama and the wonderful feeling of being attracted to somebody. it's all part of life. accept that you have feelings for her and then decide: 1- if you want to pursue it 2- if you want to let it pass.

I decided not to pursue it because she's really straight despite the fact that she's touchy and back in college, i'm the only one she'd ever sleep in her apartment and we kissed like 1-2 times on the lips (yes straight girls dont mind)

But in the future, lemme repeat: DO NOT FALL FOR STRAIGHT GIRLS

[v-e-l-c-r-o]

it my blog i do what i want to

hallo loyal dust bunnies and tumble weed! i keep forgetting this exists. and then i come back and im like damn. this rocks. i can just say whatever. so anyway, in traditional blog style heres a little life update, cause this is my glorified dusty diary that i dig out from a drawer every few months.

so since i last properly posted, ive been attending university. im enjoying myself mostly, but some shit sucks. i struggle with motivation (what else is new) but i have a definite appreciation and curiosity of the content im learning cause like.. i know its valuable. but anyway, my feelings about school are not particularily interesting. im not failing all my classes, im not passing with flying colours. im not doing anything extraordinary, but that's okay for now. i think its just hard because my excellence in academics has always been like, an important part my identity, and now im at this point in my life where i have to shed off the old and embrace all of this new. like a reptile. but its scary! this is the life ive lived for the past 18 years, and so much of it is changing, im leaving so much of my life in the past. shedding the skin. i guess if im using this skin-shedding metaphor i should consider the fact that some of those creatures eat the dead skin after they shed it. i think. ? yeah i googled it they do. that propbably means something profound. its like, i dont have to pretend the past never existed. i can feed off it, learn from it, let it be a part of me forever. or until i poop it out? so maybe its just a re-processing. yeah, like a lizard eating the skin it just shed off, i will consantly eat my past experiences, finding new things to take from them before leaving them to exist only in memory. hm . food for thought. hahaha.

in other news, im dating for the first time! its like school, amazing, new, exciting, but also kind of disapointing and/or confusing. but im sure well figure it out. my main thing is she doesn't talk to me as much as id like. sometimes, i guess most of the time, she doesn't respond to messages until a day or two has passed. but shes so good when she does. she says perfect things to make me feel safe again, and to leave me a desperate for more. i realized recently i have an addiction to loving mean people; i want to be the exception. its super toxic and self-destructive. but its why i dont find friendships with purely kind people fullfilling. i crave that sting of an off-handed comment, and then the soft way they stroke the wound. jesus i need some friends. i have friends, but they are more her friends, so im only with them when she invites me. the depraved part of me loves that so much, the starving for her next message, praying she'll bless me by allowing me out with her prestigious group of people whom i love. but the wounded dog inside me is bearing her teeth, she wants to bark at her, bite at her hands. somewhere in between is a glimmer of logic, knowing shes only busy. its so much simpler than my mind convinces me of. shes busy. she is doing what i should be, studying, prioritizing school, letting time and longing tension build up between us. space is no bad thing, but my dog inside of me, she knows space can mean space forever, knows it can be the beginnning of the end. i just want to be indulged, i want my fantasies to come to life. i want her to be what i imagine. because sometimes she is. am i expecting far to much of a person? why do i sink my teeth into everything i love, or anything that loves me? shouldn't i know by know they will pry away, leave wounded and blood soaked?

im not sure what comes next. christmas should restore these tired parts of me, and it should make things clearer. i hope she talks to me, helps me understand her mind. does she love me? did she say so by accident in a moment of intensity? i guess i dont have to know right now, ill let her be.

obviously i needed to vent a little, whoopsiedoodles! i know nobody's reading this, except probably me in the future, but thus concludes my nonsense rambling/trying to make sense of my life atm. this was nice.

[brooksidecounseling1]

Understanding Ketamine Therapy at Provo Clinics

In recent years, ketamine therapy has emerged as a revolutionary treatment for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. This innovative therapy has gained traction as an alternative for individuals who have not found relief through traditional treatments. In Provo, Utah, several clinics offer ketamine therapy, providing hope for those seeking effective mental health solutions. This article aims to explore the fundamentals of ketamine therapy, how it works, and what to expect from Provo clinics specializing in this treatment.

What is Ketamine Therapy?

Originally developed as an anesthetic for surgical procedures, ketamine has been repurposed for its rapid antidepressant effects. Unlike traditional antidepressants that can take weeks to show results, ketamine can provide relief within hours or days, making it an attractive option for individuals experiencing severe mental health challenges.

Mechanism of Action

Ketamine primarily affects the brain's glutamate system, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation and neural connectivity. By blocking NMDA receptors and promoting the release of glutamate, ketamine enhances synaptic plasticity, fostering new neural pathways. This unique mechanism is thought to contribute to its rapid antidepressant effects.

The Types of Ketamine Treatments Available

Clinics in Provo typically offer several forms of ketamine therapy:

Intravenous (IV) Infusion: The most common method, where ketamine is administered through an IV in a controlled clinical environment. This approach allows for precise dosing and immediate effects.

Intranasal Sprays: Some clinics may provide intranasal ketamine sprays, which are less invasive and easier to administer but may vary in effectiveness compared to IV infusions.

Oral Ketamine: Although less commonly used and studied, a Ketamine Clinic Provo may offer oral formulations of ketamine.

What to Expect from Ketamine Therapy in Provo

Initial Consultation

Before starting ketamine therapy, you will typically undergo an initial consultation with a qualified healthcare professional at the clinic. This meeting allows for a thorough assessment of your mental health history, symptoms, and treatment goals. The clinician will explain the process, potential benefits, and risks associated with ketamine therapy.

Treatment Process

Once approved for treatment, patients usually participate in a series of ketamine infusions. Here’s what to expect during the process:

Comfortable Environment: Provo clinics prioritize creating a calming and supportive atmosphere for patients. Many clinics have comfortable seating, soothing décor, and trained staff to ensure a positive experience.

Monitoring and Safety: During the infusion, healthcare professionals closely monitor vital signs and overall well-being. This continuous monitoring is essential to ensure safety and comfort.

Post-Infusion Care: After the treatment, patients may rest in a recovery area until they feel ready to leave. It is crucial to arrange for someone to drive you home, as ketamine can affect coordination and judgment.

Ongoing Support and Follow-Up

A Ketamine Clinic Provo offers ongoing support through follow-up appointments and therapy sessions. Regular check-ins allow healthcare professionals to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. Additionally, some clinics provide resources and support groups to help patients connect with others on similar journeys.

Choosing the Right Ketamine Clinic in Provo

When considering ketamine therapy, it’s essential to select a reputable clinic that aligns with your needs. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Qualified Staff

Look for clinics with experienced and licensed professionals who specialize in ketamine therapy. The qualifications of the medical team can significantly impact the quality of care you receive.

2. Reputation and Reviews

Research the clinic’s reputation by reading patient reviews and testimonials. Positive feedback from previous patients can indicate a supportive and effective treatment environment.

3. Comprehensive Approach

Consider clinics that integrate ketamine therapy with psychotherapy and other supportive services. A holistic approach can enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment.

4. Safety Protocols

Ensure that the clinic has strict safety protocols in place. Ketamine infusions should be administered in a controlled environment with appropriate monitoring to address any potential complications.

5. Comfort and Atmosphere

The environment where you receive treatment is crucial. Look for a Ketamine Clinic Provo that prioritizes patient comfort and creates a welcoming atmosphere.

The Future of Ketamine Therapy

As research continues to advance our understanding of ketamine’s effects, its role in mental health treatment is expected to expand. Ongoing studies aim to explore the long-term effects, optimal dosing, and potential applications for different populations. Provo clinics are committed to staying at the forefront of these developments, offering cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care.

Conclusion

Ketamine therapy has opened new avenues for individuals struggling with mental health conditions in Provo and beyond. By understanding how ketamine works, what to expect during treatment, and how to choose the right clinic, patients can make informed decisions about their mental health care.

If you or someone you know is considering ketamine therapy, reach out to a local clinic, such as Brookside Counseling, to learn more about the options available and start the journey toward healing. With the right support and treatment plan, a brighter future is within reach.

[trustednewstribune]

Centre Rules Out Special Status For Bihar, Lalu Yadav's Party Takes A Swipe

The Centre has ruled out any plan to give a special category status to Bihar, a core demand by its key ally, the Janata Dal (United), prompting the Rashtriya Janata Dal to take a swipe at JDU leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Ramprit Mandal, JDU MP from Bihar's Jhanjharpur, had asked the Finance Ministry if the government has a plan to provide special status to Bihar and other most backward states to promote economic growth and industrialisation.

In a written response, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said "case for Special Category Status for Bihar is not made out".

"The Special Category Status for plan assistance was granted in the past by the National Development Council (NDC) to some States that were characterized by a number of features necessitating special consideration. These features included (i) hilly and difficult terrain, (ii) low population density and/or sizeable share of tribal population, (iii) strategic location along borders with neighbouring countries, (iv) economic and infrastructural backwardness and (v) non-viable nature of State finances," the reply stated. "Earlier, the request of Bihar for Special Category Status was considered by an Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG) which submitted its Report on 30th March, 2012. The IMG came to the finding that based on existing NDC criteria, the case for Special Category Status for Bihar is not made out," it added.

A special status ensures more central support to a backward state to expedite its growth. While the Constitution does not provide for a special status for any state, it was introduced on the recommendations of the Fifth Finance Commission in 1969. Among the states that have received a special status so far are Jammu and Kashmir (now a Union Territory), Noreastern states and hill states such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

A state with a special category status gets more funding support from the Central in the Union government's schemes and several concessions in taxes.

A special status for Bihar has been a longstanding demand of the JDU. With the BJP falling short of a majority in this election and tying up with JDU, TDP and other parties to cobble up the magic figure, the Nitish Kumar-led party was expected to push hard for its core demand. The JDU also raised this demand at an all-party meeting before the budget session.

JDU MP Sanjay Kumar Jha said the demand for a special state status for Bihar has been a priority for the JDU. "Bihar should get the status of a special state, this has been the demand of our party since the beginning. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has held big rallies for this demand. If the government feels that there is a problem in doing this, then we have demanded a special package for Bihar," he said, according to a PTI report.

With the Centre making it clear that it has no plan to grant a special status, Bihar's main Opposition RJD has hit out at the JDU, which is ruling the state in alliance with BJP. "Nitish Kumar and JDU leaders must enjoy the fruits of power at the Centre and continue their drama politics on special status," the RJD said in a post on X.

A source in the government said that the Special Category Status issue was first addressed in the National Development Council meeting in 1969. "During this meeting, the D R Gadgil Committee introduced a formula to allocate Central Assistance for state plans in India. Prior to this, there was no specific formula for fund distribution to States, and grants were given on a scheme basis. The Gadgil Formula, approved by the NDC, prioritized special category States such as Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, and Nagaland, ensuring their needs were addressed first from the pool of Central assistance."

The Special Category status concept was introduced by the 5th Finance Commission in 1969 recognising historical disadvantages of certain regions, the source said.

"Until the 2014-2015 fiscal year, the 11 States with Special Category Status benefited from various advantages and incentives. However, following the dissolution of the Planning Commission and the formation of the NITI Aayog in 2014, the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission were implemented, leading to the discontinuation of Gadgil Formula-based grants. Instead, the devolution from the divisible pool to all States was increased from 32% to 42%," the source added.

[frigid666]

we're never going to end patriarchy if we make the rejection of motherhood a requirement of feminism. most women would choose their children + families over feminism, especially if they feel they are j going to be judged + condescended for being mothers in feminist spaces (even if it's not the case); even if we magically convinced every woman on the planet to not have any more kids, most of them would already have at least one. what then? are these women expected to self flagelate?

and let's be real, radical feminism is a niche ideology that will likely remain niche because of how childish + out of touch most of the women involved are; radical feminism in recent years has produced nothing to offer the average woman due to how easily it allowed itself to be absorbed by the anti-trans conservative establishment. its currently going nowhere, so can normie women really be faulted for prioritizing their children + families over a half-dead movement that doesn't even see value in helping them and in fact sees them as class traitors because they had kids (esp if it was w men)?

and on the topic: i don't think it's productive to frame women having kids as solely doing so in service of a man like someone in the replies has framed it as. not everything women do is solely a product of patriarchal brainwashing, that's some polilez rhetoric. motherhood is not a male invention. as an institution, it is currently patriarchal because men have used religious, economic, and sexist influence to artificially overstate their importance in human reproduction. in nature, males are disposable; this is an existential truth that has tormented men since the start of humanity, so they weaponised what they had at their disposal + the vulnerabilities that come with pregnancy/motherhood to control mothers (who make up the bulk of womankind) and by extension daughters. it's an almost air-tight setup that ensures their continued male supremacist control over women and society (because women create the people within society). idk how radfems can recognize womb envy and yet insist the root of patriarchy is reproduction itself rather than how its been weaponised against the natural creators [women]. the issue is men coveting women's role as the creators of people, not women's reproductive capacity itself. i think that's the biggest revelation ive had regarding radical feminism - it offers so many good analyses + salient observations about women's oppression, but it completely falls flat on resolutions.

we aren't going to uproot shit if our game plan is to somehow convince women (which btw also includes lesbian + same-sex partnered bisexual women, not just straight women) to stop wanting + having kids instead of seizing control of motherhood so it's dictated by + benefits women instead of men. like what a waste of time. radical feminism because it IS intrinsically tied with antinatalism is a waste of time. like did we forget patriarchy literally means "rule of the FATHER"? we are handing the win over to male supremacy if, as feminists our only response to male-dictated reproduction is "lol stop having kids" ...what kind of childish black and white thinking...

honestly i wish more women who are truly committed to improving conditions for women abandoned radical feminist framework. we should take what is valuable from it, but discard the rest. as it currently stands, most radfems seem to think the solution to female oppression is to end humanity. that's sad. that's basically saying "women can't be free ever, so let's just allow humanity to die off." im beginning to understand why radfems have accrued the reputation of infatilizing women + not caring about mothers.

radfems are always going on about how "other movements aren't expected to do [xyz]!" then turn around and insist on denying women a fundamental aspect other social movements share: aspirations for the future. truly, no other oppressed group is expected to abandon hope and j choose to die off without having experienced even one day of liberation the way women are per radical feminist doctrine. activists don't only fight for the best interests of their oppressed class - they're also meant to inspire hope.

full offense but some of you need to touch grass and realize most of the women whose liberation you claim to be fighting for are normies and being aggressively anti natalist does not serve women who have already given birth in any way. Some of you truly don't care about women, only about being holier than thou. fun fact not even radfem theorists were perfect radfems. such thing does not exist. imagine calling a woman a sociopath for birthing a child and still believing you are the compassionate one lmao. literally go outside interact with random women on the street I beg u guys.

[tallmantall]

#JamesDonaldson On #MentalHealth – Johns Hopkins Report Finds Troubling Rise In Black Youth Suicide Rate

John-John Williams IV Jada Carrington has dedicated her adult life to advocating for mental health awareness. For the past eight years, Carrington has helped to facilitate workshops for youth based around mental health. She is also the former young adult representative for the Governor’s Commission on Suicide Prevention Our nonprofit news organization is made possible by subscribers and donors who value storytelling that impacts and uplifts communities. Thank you for supporting our journalism. The suicide rate among Black youths increased 144% from 2007 to 2020, with data showing that Black LGBTQ+ youth are particularly at risk, according to a new report from researchers at the Center for Gun Violence Solutions at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The report, “Still Ringing the Alarm: An Enduring Call to Action for Black Youth Suicide Prevention,” comes a year after the gun suicide rate among Black teens surpassed the rate among white teens for the first time in history. In fact, Black youth have the fastest-rising suicide rate compared to their peers of other races and ethnicities, the report stated. Despite the alarming rise, the report says, “Black researchers and implementers face significant barriers to conduct research and develop and implement culturally specific, evidence-based interventions for Black youth suicide prevention.” The findings go to the core of intersectionality — the overlapping of interconnected social groups such as race, gender and class — and speak to the nature of the political landscape, the report’s authors say. They also underline the divide in the ways suicide prevention and mental health are addressed. “We do hypothesize that institutional racism likely had an effect, but we don’t know for sure. That is one of the contributing factors that was at play,” said Janel Cubbage, a strategic partnerships and equity program manager at the Center for Gun Violence Solutions. The findings, which are based on myriad sources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to The Trevor Project, also underscore the inequities in the suicide prevention community. For example, from 2019 to the present, the term suicide resulted in 4,517 mentions in medical publications. Of that total, 951 results were specific to youth suicide. Of that figure, 42 articles were about Black youth suicide. “All of the research has been done from a Eurocentric view,” Cubbage said. “Resources are not being dedicated to this issue.” And, although the majority of the research is focused on the effects of suicide in relation to gun violence, other forms of suicide are explored. From 2001 to 2020, the most common method of suicide among Black youth from birth through age 19 was suffocation (47.1%), followed by firearms (40.9%). But for Black boys from birth through age 19, suicide by firearm was the most common method (47.7%), followed by suffocation (42.7%). For suicide prevention advocates and community leaders, the latest findings are upsetting but not surprising. Janiah Fields, a suicidology advocate, said she was disappointed by the findings. “The numbers have increased for quite some time. But it’s not being prioritized,” Fields said. “This will continue to rise if we keep sweeping this under the rug and not putting this as a top agenda.” Fields, a 19-year-old junior at McDaniel College, said she became interested in advocacy work because she saw a lack of mental health representation in the media. She was concerned that mental health — especially within the Black community — was stigmatized or ignored. “There’s always work that needs to be done as Black people,” said Fields, who assisted with the recent report. “We need to open up the floor to the conversation that isn’t talked about. We’re just expected to be strong. It’s OK to feel all the feels. We can only make it accessible if we talk about it.” Lee Blinder, founder and executive director of Trans Maryland, called the findings “heartbreaking.” “There is nothing we want more than our young folks to have a better experience than we did,” Blinder said, adding that representation matters and that it is important for LGBTQIA youth to meet and see people who look like them. According to the report, in 2019, the year for which the most recent data is available, 51% of Black LGB (lesbian, gay, and bisexual) youth reported feeling sad or hopeless during the previous year and 35.1% reported seriously considering attempting suicide. “When we are looking at data, our young people are feeling empowered to share their truth. We are seeing overwhelmingly that our young folks are coming out in significant numbers. However, they are encountering a world that does not provide space that they need to thrive,” Blinder said. “They are a significant part of the population. We want to make sure that they can survive.” Jada Carrington has dedicated her adult life to advocating for mental health awareness. For the past eight years, she has helped to facilitate workshops for youth based around mental health. She is also the former young adult representative for the Governor’s Commission on Suicide Prevention. “It’s important to be a voice for the people who do not have one,” said Carrington, who has experienced depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicidal thoughts.“I’m also standing up for myself as well.” Carrington said that breaking the stigmatization of suicide and mental illness in the Black community remains paramount. She also said Black LGBTQ youth face compounded pressures. “People are still very much ashamed, and of course that creates so many mental health issues,” Carrington said. “You can’t even be yourself and live in your own identity. You may be shunned, rejected and possibly beaten or killed. That’s double the issue of not feeling safe at any time in your skin and who you are.” Carrington is looking for “creative ways” to address mental health so that it doesn’t feel “so invasive.” “It needs to be normalized,” she added. “We need to create more spaces where you feel safe talking about mental health.” Rev. Kobi Little, president of the Baltimore City chapter of the NAACP, hasn’t read the study, but he said mental health in the Black community remains front of mind in discussions concerning Baltimore. “I was just commenting earlier this week that there are a lack of therapists who have the social competence to address the needs of the Black community,” he said. Little called the issue “striking” in Baltimore. “We’re subjected to compound trauma,” he said. “It’s a triage situation. We have to stop the trauma, and we have to heal the trauma. We need to have people in place who are qualified and desirous to do that work.” Among the report’s recommendations: that small, community-based organizations and Black researchers have clear access to suicide prevention research and funds; an increase in the amount and availability of funding for suicide prevention research and implementation; the creation of safe and supportive spaces for Black youth; evaluation of the 988 national suicide prevention lifeline to understand the impact among Black youth and other communities of color; that mental health services be more accessible; and the engagement of Black churches in suicide prevention initiatives. The report’s authors also seek a better understanding of “the role financial concerns play after hospitalization and in accessing follow-up/transition care,” and they recommend reducing ”financial concerns about involuntary hospitalization.” Cubbage, the Johns Hopkins program manager, wants the field to shift its focus. “We focus so much on intervention. We do not focus on people who are already in crisis,” Cubbage said. “For Black youth, institutional racism is something we need to address to reduce the risk for Black youth so we can develop culturally responsive and appropriate interventions for Black youth.” She also wants to “decenter” the Eurocentric views of suicide. “I want to avoid the trap that we fall into by developing evidence that is normed on majority-white populations,” she said. “We need to challenge the status quo and create more equity within suicide prevention. We want to provide help so that Black youth feel that this world is worth staying in.” johnj.williams@thebaltimorebanner.com If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. #James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleFind out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundationwebsite www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com Read the full article

[technicaldr]

Hackers exploiting medical devices to target hospitals

Medical devices are a weak link in hospital cyber defenses, putting patients in the crossfire: study

Patients are feeling the effects of cyber attacks entering through the internet of medical things as hospitals continue to pass the buck.

    Half of hospitals have been attacked with ransomware with 45% of organizations stating they believed the attacks were affecting patient care, according to a study released by Cynerio and Ponemon. Out of the group attacked, over half believed cyber attacks were indirectly responsible for increased mortality rates. The report cited integral medical devices being a weak link in hospital armor and a lack of foresight sending hospitals spiraling into attack cycles.

    “What we find is that the healthcare industry is by far the highest risk industry with respect to emerging threats and vulnerabilities and real attacks, not just the possibility of an attack, but real legitimate attacks,” said Larry Ponemon, founder and chairman of the Ponemon Institute. “These organizations have been inept in implementing security processes, especially if we include issues around IoT, internet of things and internet of medical things.”

Ponemon pointed to these devices that are ubiquitous in hospitals, everything from MRI machines to heart rate monitors, which were involved in 88% of data breaches. Furthermore, 79% of organizations do not consider the cybersecurity of these devices to be deemed “mature,” and only 33% of survey respondents reported keeping an inventory of the attacked devices. Without the proper defense, these devices can become revolving doors for hackers, experts say.

“Medical devices create problems for organizations that don't understand how to secure them,” Ponemon said. “Based on our study, and other studies conducted, the weakest link in the security chain within healthcare is managing these devices, because it's not one device. It's hundreds of devices.”

  Chad Holmes, security evangelist at Cynerio, said the issue is not ignorance of the cyber threat or an unwillingness to address it, but the prioritization of patient care above cybersecurity. He said these new technologies have been adopted at a rapid rate for their life-saving functions but without an adequate assessment of the risks they pose.

“One thing that's really challenging in health care networks is that they're typically considered flat, meaning they're not segmented,” Holmes said. “It's  easy or traffic to bounce around, so an attack may not go into an IV pump, necessarily, although it can, but once it's in it can use those hundreds of thousands of IV pumps to kind of replicate throughout the environment.”

If a system is attacked once in this way, it’s likely less expensive to pay the ransom than refit the entire system, but Holmes said that if a hacker perceives a target as a potential steady source of revenue, an attack cycle begins. In cases like the infamous University of Vermont Medical Center hack, it’s undoubtedly less expensive to include cybersecurity in this year’s budget, not next. With half of survey respondents choosing to pay the ransom simply because it was the quickest path to recovery, the threat of future attacks only continues to grow.

On average, systems are paying $250,000 to $500,000 in any single ransomware attack, according to the study. That's not mentioning the fees incurred due to lost patient information, per the 2009 HITECH Act dictating that health institutions be charged steep penalties for exposing patient records.

  Technical Doctor's insight:

Contact Details : inquiry@technicaldr.com or 877-910-0004 www.technicaldr.com

[claratyler]

Its 2 AM, ive been composing for 2 hours and im finally going to bed. Not ideal since i must wake up in 5 hours to try and miraculously prepare for my 10 AM piano lesson which i have not studied for aaaalll week 🤡 and despite this 2 hour composition session...well well well there is still so much to be done before tuesday afternoon's composition lessson...... whcih means no sleep for maria tomorrow either....

[r-ene]

how i've been surviving my second semester

not really big on tips with academics, more of staying and feeling alive on 12-hours class days

ive been mentioning in some of my posts that i have 11 to 12 hours class schedules this semester, and those days (wednesday and thursdays) are probably the most difficult days to squeeze in study time after class... especially wednesday since for thursday there's 4 major subjects to study for. and since the semester is ending, i'd like to share the things i've been doing because surprisingly i haven't felt any signs of burn out since this second semester.

note: i have a pretty lax schedule aside from wednesdays and thursdays this sem so most likely i won't be able to abide by these the following semester once our hybrid classes start + different schedule

1. workout first thing in the morning

started this one with just planks before and it helped me a lot with back pains due to sitting the whole day since after my last class at 7:30 pm, I would still continue to study after eating dinner, feeding Luna and so on. and recently i've been doing a 15-minute work out of 2-3 sets depending how much time i have before class starts and = instant energy boost. i noticed i didn't need to nap as much as i used to, but once i get to nap, i would feel all my tiredness from the day

2. sleep early on other days (M, T, F, St, Sn)

honestly still working on this because i like to do a lot of stuff within a day because i like getting things done as soon as possible and in advance for more leisure time + more time to do extra readings/notes and etc but this one is a necessity to lessen the probability of getting burnt out

3. supplements + caffeine

bee pollen supplement, vitamin c and collagen are the ones i take daily. aside from energy boost, as someone who hates being sick and doesn't like taking meds, i should keep myself healthy. i think caffeine, coffee speaks for itself for a 12 hr class haha

4. wednesday no-sleep

as much as possible i dont like doing this because not only is it a bad practice but since my wednesday schedule is 7:30am to 7:30pm and i have 4 major subjects on thursday, i need to sacrifice sleep to read through and study for those subjects especially during pre-exam week and exam weeks.

5. study buddies~ (+fun break times)

my group of friends from senior year has been a big help with this, we go on discord almost everyday and even though we are all from different majors (respiratory therapy, physical therapy, nursing, medical technology, architecture, marketing) we like hanging out on dc to study together for accountability and additional fun for studying :) we also have break schedules like wordle time at 12 mn where we all drop what we're doing (unless its very important) and go on wordle.

6. n a p s

this speaks for itself + i mentioned lots of times i love naps, sleeping in general since i was a kid. please make sure you take naps whenever you can, even a quick 15- to 20-minute nap could be an instant energy charger + it's also a break for our brain, to enhance memory and performance.

7. time management/prioritize

hmm another thing i'm still really working on, but since my gap year i like making to-do lists the night before and now i would make a list of things i need to do and highlight them in different colors for those i need to accomplish within the week and on another sheet of paper i would write down 3-5 tasks to get done within the day. +

8. not skipping meals

i used to not like eating breakfast but i've been practicing to do so recently because it's a necessity and since i worked out, i need to recharge or else i would fall asleep during morning class and even just a simple oatmeal is a big help with concentration (+ to avoid diabetes since both of our parent's family have a big history with diabetes mellitus, type 2) and i think there's a lot of people the same as me that when i really focus on something there's that tendency to put aside meals and eat once i get done and it's not a healthy thing to do especially since working/studying requires a lot of brain energy + energy in general, which we get from eating meals on time to avoid additional stressors such as stomach pain or headache from skipping/missing meal time. that being said, let's also eat healthily

9. cold shower before class

i swear i can never focus if i don't shower with cold water in the morning, especially with these kinds of schedule. it really wakes me up and theres a lot of benefits to showering with cold water (+ i live in a tropical country, it helps lessen me being irritable with the heat especially this summer time, specifically from 9-12nn, then i would shower again before lunch time gets done because it's also really hot at 1 to 4pm)

10. stretching

12 hours of class sounds bad but continuously sitting down for 12+ hours with pre-class and post-class study sessions is BAD. i can't begin to imagine how painful my neck, back and glutes would be if i don't move around every after 2 hours or whenever i can. im actually requesting to my mom if we could have a bar height table when we move so i could study/attend class with the option to just stand whenever i want to.

11. don't forget to wind down

personally i love going on a bike ride and walk around our village with the intention to just breathe in some air and do some sight-seeing, relax to wind down. sometimes i would do those to work out or do other exercises to sweat out the day's stress. other than those, sleep, read, watch, browse through my coloring books and do some coloring are other ways i like to wind down. another important note to not go to bed with a headache and/or get burnt out easily.

12. last but not the least, HYDRATE

water, water, water. sometimes i infuse my water with cucumber or lemon but usually it's just ice cold water in my 750mL flask and i would drink every now and then, especially when i can't focus/feel sleepy and refill at lunch, mid-afternoon and dinner. i also like drinking cold water as soon as i wake up and it's just really a necessity.

new tiktok :)