Get free dental, vision and medical services at the end of February in Cleveland.
CLEVELAND — A free health clinic offering dental, vision and medical services will open at John Hay High School in Cleveland for two days at the end of February, providing care to anyone who needs it, regardless of insurance status.
Remote Area Medical will host the clinic on Feb. 28 and March 1. The organization requires no insurance or identification to receive services. The parking lot opens at midnight on Feb. 27, with clinic doors opening at 6 a.m. Services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, so organizers encourage people to arrive as early as possible to ensure they receive care.
In other health news, Northeast Ohio Medical University is now accepting applications for a new certified mental health assistant degree program. The nation’s first master’s degree program of its kind will train professionals to prescribe medications for mental illness and substance use disorders under physician supervision. The program addresses a critical shortage in Ohio, where 75 of the state’s 88 counties are designated as mental health professional shortage areas. Classes begin this summer.
Meanwhile, Cleveland Clinic research highlights the health benefits of optimistic thinking. Studies show people who engage in optimistic thinking have better sleep, stronger cardiovascular systems and greater resilience to stress. Psychologist Dr. Susan Albers explains that being an optimist doesn’t mean ignoring negative situations, but rather being able to move past them.
The human body is naturally wired to scan for threats and focus on worst-case scenarios. However, experts say you can train your brain to be more optimistic by taking mindful pauses throughout the day and recognizing when positive things happen. This practice helps the brain identify and encode positive experiences into memory for the future.
If you struggle with persistent negative thoughts, mental health professionals recommend seeking support. Limiting doom scrolling on social media can also help improve your mental outlook.