PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
LAUREN MORGAN, CO-FOUNDER OF SCULPTOLOGY HELPS INDIVIDUALS RECLAIM THEIR CONFIDENCE AND VITALITY
Here’s To A Bright And Thriving New Year!
Dear Walnut Creek Community,
As we step into the new year, I'm thrilled to present our January issue focused on health, wellness, and longevity. Inspired by Peter Attia's "Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity," we've curated a collection of articles that explore not just extending our lifespan, but more importantly, enhancing our healthspan.
In this issue, we delve into innovative approaches to aging gracefully and maintaining vitality. We profile Avida Homecare, an alternative to traditional assisted living that enables seniors to stay in their homes longer - a valuable resource for those of us with aging parents.
We've also explored cutting-edge wellness treatments. Sculptology, California's leading CoolSculpting provider, has expanded its services to offer a holistic approach to body wellness. From red light therapy to cryotherapy, they're redefining what it means to care for our bodies.
To provide a comprehensive guide on proactive health management, we've reached out to various local experts. Dr. Paul Kim from the Medical Institute of Healthy Aging shares insights on anti-aging and longevity, offering our community access to advanced health optimization techniques.
This issue aims to empower you with the knowledge and resources to take charge of your health. Whether you're exploring new therapies, understanding the latest in longevity science, or finding ways to support your loved ones as they age, we've got you covered.
Here's to a year of vitality, wellness, and living our best lives!
Warm regards,
LAUREL KELLAM, PUBLISHER @WALNUTCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Laurel Kellam | laurel.kellam@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Hemananthani Sivanandam
hema.sivanandam@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jennifer Starbuck | jennifer.starbuck@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lindsey Hickman, Linda Ditch, Cole Cronk
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Aika Cardin, Charlie Hang
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2025
8:00AM–5:00PM
LESHER CENTER FOR THE ARTS WALNUT CREEK
Register Now and Save: $310/person*
Includes complimentary parking, continental breakfast, lunch, and afternoon champagne & wine reception.
For registration visit: WALNUT-CREEK.COM
* If purchased by December 31, 2024, $340 thereafter.
Both registration prices include a $12 Lesher Center for the Arts fee.
Sandra Joseph and Ron Bohmer
Broadway Royalty Husband-Wife Duo; The Phantom & Christine
Anastasia Mikova French-Ukrainian Film Director and Journalist
Rachel Wilson Wealth Management Chief Data Officer, Morgan Stanley
Karleen Roy Wellness Advocate, Host, Media Personality
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: The Walnut Creek City Lifestyle team hosted an evening of networking and appreciation for our partners at the La Fontaine Restaurant in Walnut Creek.
Photography by Sophia Cutino
Want to be seen in the magazine?
1-4: EM/POWEREDbyWMN held a cookie-decorating class and dinner club event at SanDai in Walnut Creek. The class was co-hosted by Daevonna Mosqueda of Sweet Rush Baking Co. 5-7: Residents at the Made in the Shade event at the Shadelands Sports Mall. This annual community event, hosted by Shadelands Walnut Creek, featured live music, food trucks, exhibitor booths, demonstrations, and sports activities.
DELARA KIANI
DELARA KIANI
ANY SPACE IS AN OPPORTUNITY
Astounding Construction Inc. delivers exceptional craftsmanship, transforming spaces with premium finishes and meticulous attention to detail. Our recent projects showcase luxurious outdoor areas, featuring seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living spaces, enhanced by highquality materials like stone-tiled floors and sleek glass doors. From the foundation to the final touches, every phase of construction is handled with precision, ensuring long-lasting, beautiful results. Whether it’s a large-scale renovation or a custom addition, Astounding Construction Inc. combines passion, expertise, and premium materials to bring your dream home to life.
Mention Walnut Creek City Lifestyle for
Treat Yourself to Post-Holiday Relaxation
Astounding Construction Inc.
Whether you're planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, room addition, ADU construction, or a full home renovation, let Astounding Construction Inc. be your trusted local expert. As a fully registered, licensed, bonded, and insured construction company, Astounding Construction handles all aspects of home remodeling, construction, and makeover projects, no matter the size. Get professional home remodeling services with free estimates to get you started without hesitation!
Photography by Astounding Construction
Reclaim Your Passion
THE SCULPTOLOGY TEAM HELPS PEOPLE DO WHAT THEY LOVE
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AIKA CARDIN
Photo courtesy of Sculptology. Dr. Alejandro (Photo courtesy of Sculptology).
Sometimes, life's journey reshapes how people feel about their bodies—be it an injury, childbirth, aging, illness, or everyday stress. For many, these changes bring challenges, but at Sculptology, they are seen as opportunities for renewal and vitality.
Sculptology co-founders Dr. Alejandro Arnez, M.D., and Lauren Morgan are passionate about empowering individuals to live life confidently and embrace mid-adulthood and beyond.
Lauren, who sits on CoolSculpting corporate's board of advisers, says one of the best aspects of the business is meeting people from all walks of life.
CoolSculpting® is an FDA-cleared non-surgical contouring procedure that helps remove stubborn body fat using a fat-freezing technology known as cryolipolysis. This noninvasive process naturally eliminates up to 20-25% of treated fat cells over one to three months.
"Everybody comes with a different story, which I think is fascinating because everybody has the same objective,” Lauren notes. She shared the experience of one patient, a man in his late 60s who came to Sculptology to improve his stability for ski season and enhance his golf game. His motivation wasn't just appearance but staying active and enjoying life's adventures.
"It can very much be just the lifestyle change that someone needs in order to feel better and do the things that they love," says Lauren, who is a certified CoolSculpting Master.
Lauren recalls a particularly moving moment when a client, who avoided wearing shorts for years, was brought to tears by her transformation.
"It's not just about how they look—it's about how they feel, what they do, and the confidence they gain. Our work gives them the freedom to pivot back to their passion," she says.
Sculptology's clients are active individuals in their late 30s to early 60s. However, they find that diet and exercise alone aren't enough to achieve their goals. The tailored treatments empower individuals to make lifestyle changes, improve their health, and embrace new possibilities.
A visit to Sculptology begins with a conversation about the person's goals and dreams. Then, a personalized plan is crafted using their S-Method™, a roadmap designed to help individuals reach those goals. Most people start with CoolSculpting® Elite to melt away stubborn fat, followed by LED Light Therapy and an Infrared Halo Sauna session to detoxify and boost metabolism. Some choose RF Microneedling to tighten their skin and CoolTone® therapy to strengthen muscles. The final step is a revitalizing session of Cryotherapy to energize them for whatever comes next.
"Everyone's story is unique, and that is the approach we take to their treatment plan. It's not a cookie-cutter approach whatsoever," says Lauren.
Dr. Alejandro says one of the things that he loves about what Sculptology does is the positive side effects on their clients.
"They decided to eat better. They decided to go back into the dating scene. They chose to do many things they hadn't done in the past. The objective is to give them that opportunity. What I love to see is when they actually capitalize on that opportunity and create a completely different environment around them to be able to enjoy what they like to do," says Dr. Alejandro.
He says many clients view Sculptology as a partner in their journey toward health and vitality.
"We see clients reclaiming their health and taking charge of their future. It's about longevity, confidence, and living life fully," he notes.
Many want to be active, travel, and tick off their bucket list by doing the activities they used to enjoy before settling down and starting their families.
"A lot of these things require you to be healthy. I think that's what we're after— trying to provide these second-chance opportunities," says Dr. Alejandro.
Sculptology has been named a CoolSculpting® Center of Excellence and California's number one CoolSculpting® Elite provider for three years running. This year, it became the number one CoolSculpting® provider in the nation among more than 7,000 practices.
To learn more about the program and book a free consultation, visit Sculptology.com
A FAMILY'S JOURNEY TO COMPASSIONATE SENIOR CARE
HONORING A LIFE WELL LIVED
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN
BY CHARLIE HANG
Raul Mendez understands what it's like to make tough choices for an aging parent while still being of working age, facing profound personal challenges when it came to caring for his ailing mother, who suffered from lupus, arthritis, heart conditions, and emphysema. Raul’s struggle intensified when he lost her, leaving him to navigate the complexities of caring for his father in Puerto Rico from his home in the Bay Area.
Raul’s wife, Adrienne, an ICU nurse at a local major hospital, stood by his side throughout this emotional journey, together working tirelessly to manage his father's needs from afar, growing frustrated with limited options for quality care.
After serving in the U.S. Air Force as a pilot, Raul went on to become a commercial airline pilot, retiring from that career in 2017; this struggle became the catalyst for their new mission. Raul and Adrienne recognized a profound need for compassionate care that respected the elderly as the valuable family historians that they are. Inspired by their experiences, they founded Avida Home Care in 2017. The name, meaning
"a life" in Spanish, reflects their commitment to enhancing the quality of life for seniors by allowing them to remain in the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible.
Raul and Adrienne’s vision was clear: to provide a caregiving service that captures the essence of each elderly individual, ensuring they maintain their health and safety in familiar surroundings. Their mission is to create a supportive environment where families can feel confident in the care their loved ones receive.
Avida caregivers provide a wide range of services designed to enhance the quality of life with a holistic approach; whether it’s grocery shopping, meal prep, medical reminders, or transportation, they work to maintain independence. If a client has a beloved pet, caregivers can assist with grooming appointments or walks, ensuring that the pet remains a source of joy and companionship. Or if a client enjoys a trip to the store and cooking, the caregiver can help plan meals, take them shopping, cook with them, and provide clean up. Moreover, spending quality time listening to their stories and engaging in their interests.
Avida’s roots run deep in family history and personal experience, a testament to the power of family collaboration. Vincenzo Cangilose, Raul’s son-in-law, joined the company two years ago after working in real estate and tech sales. Their discussions about working together had always been on the table, so when the opportunity arose, he joined the team. Together, they have continued to build Avida into a family-centered service that prioritizes the well-being of seniors while providing peace of mind to their families.
Avida caregivers provide a wide range of services designed to enhance the quality of life with a holistic approach.
Avida offers an alternative to assisted living that does away with the negative connotations associated with receiving caregiving support. “Our mission is to take a snapshot of the lifestyle an elderly person is living in their home and maintain it as long as possible,” Raul explains. Hence, their motto: "Caring. One life at a time."
Some signs that your family member may need an in-home caregiver include:
• Decline in Physical Health or Mobility: Difficulty with daily activities like bathing or dressing, frequent falls, or neglecting personal hygiene can indicate the need for assistance.
• Cognitive Changes: Confusion, memory loss, or trouble concentrating may signal that they require support to manage daily routines safely.
• Social Withdrawal and Emotional Changes: Increased isolation or signs of depression suggest they may benefit from companionship and encouragement to engage in activities.
Recognizing these signs early can significantly enhance the quality of life for our seniors while maintaining their independence.
Visit avidahomecare.net for more information.
Hear Life Clearly Again
Improving hearing is more than just a Hearing Aid. Hear the difference.
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Vincenzo, Adrienne and Raul.
GUIDE TO better health
ARTICLE BY EDITORIAL TEAM
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED TIPS FROM EXPERTS FOR YOUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Maintaining overall health requires a proactive approach. Whether it’s about caring for your hearing, oral health, self-care, or wanting to age gracefully, this guide encourages prioritizing these areas to support a healthier and more fulfilling life. In this issue, we speak to experts who offer their thoughts on taking better care of yourself and your loved ones.
WALNUT CREEK Audiology
DR. SAM JOHNSON, AU.D. EAR AND HEARING HEALTH
Untreated hearing loss can have far-reaching impacts on one’s health beyond communications.
According to Walnut Creek Audiology owner and audiologist Dr. Sam Johnson, Au.D., studies have shown that individuals with untreated hearing loss are more likely to experience hospital stays and visits to the emergency room. Dr. Sam says hearing challenges, especially in older adults, often cause misunderstandings when listening to medical instructions, which could lead to other health complications and unnecessary tests.
“Sometimes they take the wrong medicine dosage because they did not hear the instructions correctly, which could lead to medical issues,” says Dr. Sam.
Those with untreated hearing loss can also experience a higher risk of falls, leading to an increase in visits to the emergency room.
This is because the auditory system plays a crucial role in spatial awareness, helping people maintain their balance. When this system is impaired, the likelihood of falls increases.
“We also lose out on external sounds that can aid us in knowing where we are in (a) space,” he adds.
Individuals with untreated hearing loss can also experience social isolation. Struggling to follow conversations in noisy places and frequently asking others to repeat themselves are among the things that eventually lead them to withdraw from social activities they once enjoyed, fostering loneliness, anxiety, and depression.
Dr. Sam says these are good telltale signs to watch out for in loved ones, especially those older.
Research has suggested that untreated hearing loss leads to an increased risk for cognitive decline. This is likely due to a lack of information being sent to the brain from the ear.
“Over time, the pathway from ear to brain deteriorates, and ultimately, the brain may lose the ability to perceive the sound.
“When one of our senses deteriorates, our brain doesn’t receive the input it needs to operate properly,” he adds.
While the signs of hearing loss aren’t always obvious, acting early preserves not only hearing but overall health and well-being. Dr. Sam encourages people to get regular hearing tests—beginning in their 40s—to establish a baseline to detect early changes. Wearing hearing protection in noisy environments, limiting headphone volumes, and promptly addressing any suspected issues are also essential to safeguard your hearing.
COLISEUM DENTAL Walnut Creek
DENTAL HEALTH
CONTENT PROVIDED BY DR.
JEFF ERICKSON, DDS
We all know that a sparkling smile brightens up any room, but did you know that keeping your mouth healthy could also help protect your heart, lungs, and blood sugar levels?
Research increasingly shows that poor oral hygiene can lead to many systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections – all linked to oral health problems, particularly gum disease. The mouth acts as a gateway to the body, and bacteria from dental-related issues can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and complications in other organs.
Diabetes, for example, can elevate blood sugar levels, making people more prone to gum disease. This can impede the body’s ability to fight infections. Infections in the mouth make it challenging to control blood sugar levels. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups is pivotal.
One aspect of oral health is the impact of diet. Be mindful of unsuspecting sugar sources like chewable vitamins, cough drops, sleep aids, water supplements, and breath mints. Regularly consuming these products can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, leading to cavities and gum disease.
Acidity from foods, drinks, or conditions like acid reflux can also erode tooth enamel, making teeth more prone to decay and fractures. Acids from certain foods and beverages, like citrus fruits, sodas, and vinegar, can erode enamel over time. Additionally, intrinsic acid sources, such as acid reflux, heartburn, or vomiting, can contribute to tooth erosion.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital for overall health, not just for a bright smile. Regular dental care, mindful eating, and caution about seemingly benign products can help prevent systemic health issues. A healthy mouth contributes to a healthier body, emphasizing the need for an integrated approach to wellness that encompasses both oral and overall health.
Visit Coliseumdentalwc.com
Photo courtesy of Henry Schein Dental
MEDICAL INSTITUTE of Healthy Aging
HEALTHY AGING
CONTENT PROVIDED BY DR.
PAUL H KIM, M.D.
As we approach the middle of this decade, healthy aging or longevity medicine has become increasingly accepted as an important aspect of one’s care.
With the advent of tests that measure biological aging, gut microbiome studies, and unique biomarkers, aging can be quantified so that intervention can help with the ‘aging process.’
The importance of this process can deliver a truly proactive model of one’s risk of chronic diseases. How we age determines our susceptibility to chronic diseases that we are all too familiar with. These common diseases include the top causes of death in our country – heart disease and cancer. Other prominent chronic diseases include stroke, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, arthritis, and, of course, neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s. The focus on healthy aging helps one to identify early signs of these diseases. In other words, it helps one to be proactive instead of reactive. Healthcare providers who follow longevity medicine can also help provide personalized patient care.
The idea of healthy aging goes beyond just removing health issues—it focuses on building “health reserves” that promote a more youthful, energetic state. This involves understanding and addressing the body’s biochemical processes, such as fixing mitochondrial issues, removing aging cells, balancing nutrients and hormones, and detoxifying waste. You can read more about these processes in Lifespan: Why We Age—and Why We Don’t Have To, a book by David Sinclair that explores the science of aging and how to live longer.
Some may notice that despite following the same diet or exercise routines, they no longer see the same benefits. Others may find they’ve lost the motivation to stay physically active or feel that cravings have become more frequent, often tied to stress and the aging process. Implementing healthy aging therapies can help with the lifestyle issues some may encounter. Visit mdiha.com/
WOODHOUSE SPA
Walnut Creek
SELF-CARE
ANNA KAUFMAN
Self-care is more than just a trend—it’s a vital part of maintaining overall health and happiness. Taking time for yourself can significantly improve your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, helping you manage stress, boost energy, and feel more balanced in your daily life.
One of the most effective forms of self-care is massage therapy. Woodhouse Spa Walnut Creek spa director Anna Kaufman says the ideal frequency of massages depends on the individual’s needs and lifestyle.
“For many clients at Woodhouse, booking a massage once a month is perfect for maintaining a state of relaxation, reducing stress, and boosting overall wellness.
“However, for those experiencing specific issues such as chronic pain, muscle tension, or fatigue, we recommend more frequent sessions— bi-weekly or weekly massages can help manage these concerns more effectively,” says Anna.
She says therapists at Woodhouse will work with individuals seeking to relax, recover from exercise routines, or address specific issues to customize a plan that supports their wellness goals.
Beyond relaxation, massages can reduce chronic pain, relieve muscle tension, and improve circulation. They also help lower stress levels, enhance mental clarity, and support better sleep—factors that contribute to a healthier lifestyle. For athletes or individuals with physically demanding routines, massages aid in muscle recovery and prevent injuries.
Woodhouse, says Anna, offers a range of signature treatments designed to target specific health and wellness needs.
Among the signature treatments offered is the “Body Balance Massage,” a Woodhouse take on the classic Swedish massage that promotes relaxation, relieves stress, and improves circulation. Those with deeper muscle tensions can opt for the “Deep Tissue Massage,” which focuses on pressure to release tight knots and discomfort, beneficial for those with physically demanding lifestyles.
“Our Tranquil Stone Massage uses the soothing heat of Himalayan salt stones to relax the muscles and improve blood flow, making it ideal for those with joint stiffness or stress. “Each of these treatments is carefully designed to cater to different needs, helping clients recover, rejuvenate, and unwind,” she says.
Visit locations.woodhousespas.com/dir/ca/ walnut-creek/1636-cypress-st
Photo courtesy of Woodhouse Spa-Walnut Creek
Scenic Trails in Walnut Creek and Contra Costa County
YOUR GUIDE TO NATURE, HIKING, AND RELAXATION
ARTICLE BY COLE CRONK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STOCK PHOTOS
Getting out and into nature is a great way to decompress from life’s daily struggles at home or work. Walking and hiking are some of the most accessible forms of exercise and mindfulness. Here are some great options for the next time you want to take a stroll through what Walnut Creek and the greater Contra Costa County offer.
1. MOUNT DIABLO
Whether you are hiking around, up, or seeing it from afar, Mount Diablo is an iconic place with stunning views. The hike to the summit is a whopping 7.3 miles and is considered a challenging hike with a steep climb. Or, enjoy gentler trails at the Diablo Foothills that showcase this majestic mountain.
2.
CIVIC PARK
This lush park connects to the Iron Horse Trail and Creek Walk in the heart of Walnut Creek. It's ideal for a relaxing outing or family day with two playgrounds and picnic spots. It is also right next to the Walnut Creek Library if you get bored and want to spend your time outside reading a book!
3. CASTLE ROCK REGIONAL RECREATION AREA
Nestled in Diablo Foothills, this area offers everything from sandstone formations to epic picnic spots for special gatherings. The area also has basketball and volleyball courts and a pool (open from May onward).
4. LAFAYETTE RESERVOIR
This popular, dog-friendly trail has a 2.75-mile inner loop around the water, but if you want more of a challenge, the rim trail clocks in at 5 miles with lots of rolling hills and panoramic views.
5. BRIONES REGIONAL PARK
Briones is a hiker’s paradise. From Briones Peak, you can see panoramic views of the East Bay hill, Mount Diablo, Mt. Tamalpais, and Las Trampas Regional Wilderness. There are trails for all levels, plus options for biking, horse riding, and even archery.
Maintaining these trails and the surrounding nature is a community effort. Be mindful not to litter and respect the people, animals, and plants you encounter. So, lace up your shoes, pack a snack, and hit the trails.
1. 3. 4. 5.
2.
Mount Diablo
Lafayette Reservoir (Photo from East Bay Municipal Utility District website)
Briones Regional Park
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
smart SWEETS
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
BEINGWELLCA IS DEDICATED TO COMBATING THE YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS
Bringing Mental Health
to the Forefront
ARTICLE BY COLE CRONK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRAHAM WISEMAN
Graham (right) started BeingwellCA because he saw a need for a communitydriven approach to mental health that was grounded in real experiences.
BeingwellCA is a non-profit based in Contra Costa County that is focused on combating the mental health epidemic among teenage students. In this issue, we speak with Graham Wiseman, one of the founders and CEO of BeingwellCA.
Q: WHAT GOT YOU INTO THIS WORK?
I got into this work after experiencing the tragic loss of my son, Colin. It revealed to me the immense gaps in understanding and addressing the mental health challenges that teens face every day. I started BeingwellCA because I saw a need for a community-driven approach to mental health that was grounded in real experiences rather than clinical terms. Our goal is to bring mental health into the light by breaking down stigmas and creating a culture where mental well-being is discussed and prioritized to support students, families, and educators.
Q: WHAT ARE YOU PROUDEST OF ACHIEVING WITH BEINGWELLCA?
I'm most proud of helping to establish Wellness Centers at every Acalanes Union High School District high school. The first center opened at Las Lomas, which had the county’s highest rate of involuntary psychiatric holds among teens. After
launching the center and providing mental health training, that rate dropped dramatically. The true impact is clear when students approach one of us to share that these centers saved their lives. Knowing we’re saving young lives is more meaningful than words can describe.
Q: WHAT DO YOU THINK PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH EPIDEMIC?
Stress and anxiety among students have reached alarming levels, significantly impacting their mental health and academic performance. Recent statistics reveal that up to 70% of students in California report increased feelings of depression. Academic pressure coupled with high parental expectations often exacerbates these mental health issues. Many students find themselves trapped in a cycle of worry and performance anxiety, leading to burnout and social isolation. It's essential to challenge the misconception that "suicide won’t happen here." This belief can leave communities unprepared for mental health crises. Early intervention, proactive mental health education, and community engagement are vital in dispelling this myth and promoting a culture of support and understanding.
Graham's son Colin.
Q: WHAT ARE YOU FOCUSING ON RIGHT NOW?
I’m focusing on the California Mental Health Awareness License Plate project, an initiative spearheaded by BeingwellCA in collaboration with the California Department of Education to raise awareness and funds for mental health support among students. All funds raised by this plate will go to youth mental health support in our state. The first step is raising $950,000 for the costs of the plates. Next, the DMV of California requires 7,500 pre-registered sales of the license plate to move forward with production. Historically, this has been a challenging threshold, with 12 out of the last 14 license plate campaigns failing to reach this target. We're actively working on mobilizing community support to ensure we can hit this milestone. If you're interested in staying updated on when the plates will be available, you can sign up for notifications on our website at beingwellca.org. Your support could make a significant difference in our ability to provide vital resources for mental health among young people in California!
Q: WHAT WOULD YOU WANT TO TELL A STUDENT STRUGGLING WITH ANXIETY OR DEPRESSION?
To any student struggling with anxiety or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone and that it’s okay to seek help. Mental health challenges can feel overwhelming, but there are resources and support systems available to help you navigate this difficult time. I’ve spoken with young people who struggled just like you, and they always share the same advice…It gets better. You may not be able to see it from where you are, but it gets better. Reaching out for support is key, and if you're ever in crisis or feel like you might harm yourself, call 988 or seek immediate help from a trusted adult or professional. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and many have faced similar struggles and come out stronger. Your well-being matters, and taking the first step to seek help can lead to a brighter path ahead. Visit beingwellca.org for more information.
Graham and Gail Miller who is the president and co-founder of BeingwellCA
JANUARY 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JANUARY 11TH
Motown Mania
Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek | 7:30 PM
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of old-school oldies at Motown Mania, presented by West Coast Performing Arts Presenters
JANUARY 14TH
Live! From the Library series
Oak View Room. Walnut Creek Library | 7:00 PM
Join local author Leta McCollough Seletzky as she presents her book The Kneeling Man: My Father’s Life as a Black Spy Who Witnessed the Assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr.
JANUARY 18TH
Devil Mountain Coffee House presents John McCutcheon and Tom Paxton
Mt Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church, 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. | 8:00 PM
"Devil Mountain Coffee House presents John McCutcheon and Tom Paxton. This will be Tom Paxton's farewell tour, so join in support of two amazing music legends. More information and tickets are available at DMCH.mduuc.org
