Health Simplified

Mental well-being matters at every stage of life, but for older generations it often comes with unique challenges. 

To help us break this down, Tommy Bateman, Director of Behavioral Health at Sentara Health Plans, shares insight into the mental health struggles that baby boomers and older adults may face, and how to address them with care and understanding. 

This episode shines a light on the importance of normalizing mental he...

Over the past two decades, vaping has become increasingly common, often replacing traditional cigarettes, especially among young people. Vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, involves using an electronic device to turn a liquid into an aerosol that is inhaled. These aerosols often contain nicotine, which is highly addictive, along with other chemicals and flavorings that can carry health risks. 

In this episode, our host sits down ...

In Part 2 of our conversation on the opioid crisis, we shift focus from understanding opioid use to navigating the difficult path of recovery. 

Opioids — including oxycodone, fentanyl, morphine, and heroin — are powerful pain relievers, but their misuse has led to addiction, overdose, and a growing public health emergency. Recovery is possible, but it takes more than willpower. It takes knowledge, support, and compassion. 

In t...

Opioids impact the brain and body in powerful ways, making this one of the most challenging forms of addiction. In this episode, we explore how opioids affect both the brain and body, how addiction often begins with a prescription, and what signs to look for in yourself or someone you love. 

Our guest, Shambri Myers, Manager of Behavioral Health Care Management at Sentara Health Plans, shares insights on the psychological and phy...

Postpartum depression is the most common pregnancy complication—yet many parents suffer in silence. Postpartum depression and perinatal mood disorders can affect anyone. In this episode, we’re breaking the stigma and shedding light on the realities of postpartum mental health. 

Join us for a conversation with Kate Maas, Manager of Marketing Development and Outreach on the Maternal Child Health team at Sentara Health Plans. We’ll ...

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, marking the end of her menstrual cycle, and it often brings with it a range of changes—physical, emotional, and social. In this episode of Health Simplified, host Fallon Morey sits down with Suzanne Coyner, a healthcare leader with both personal and professional experience, to break down the facts about menopause and perimenopause, debunk some common myths, and offer practical advice....