The year 2020 certainly generated a lot of memes -- mostly negative. As the new year starts (for those who follow the Gregorian calendar), it seems like we are holding our collective breaths to find out what happens next.

In this episode, I review what I learned from working on this show and talking with so many experts. Even in the face of uncertainty and severe disruption, we can work towards hope.

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Music: Wildlight

During this time of the year, people celebrate numerous holidays, both religious and secular. Pandemics are a feature of many religious stories, and people often turn to religion to help them through such difficult times. In this last episode for 2020, I talk with Reverend Stacy Swain about the role religion can play in our understanding and our response to the COVID pandemic.

Guest: Reverend Stacy Swain

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Many people who overcome COVID continue to have symptoms, months after the coronavirus is cleared from their bodies. These "long haulers" might struggle with breathing issues, brain fog, fatigue, or many other life-altering problems. Join Jay Gunkelman, a world-renowned expert on understanding the brain from the record of its electrical activity -- the EEG. He describes how the virus can enter the brain and play havoc. Jay can get pretty technical, but he also explains brain functioning better than just about anybody else I've learned from.

Guest: Jay Gunkelman

If you want to know more about neurofeedback, which is shown in clinical cases to improve long hauler cognitive symptoms, go to AAPB or ISNR. You can find Board Certified neurofeedback providers at BCIA or IQCB.

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With remote work, remote school, and remote interactions of all sorts, we are using our digital devices more than ever. Sitting motionless, staring into a screen for hours each day takes its toll. Dr. Erik Peper has been studying the impact of technology on health for many years. We discuss the role of the pandemic in worsening tech stress, and what we can do about it.

Guest: Erik Peper, PhD

Read Dr. Peper's blog, follow some tips for reducing tech stress, and check out the book he recently co-authored.

Dr. Peper refers to apps to remind us to take breaks from the computer. He mentions Stretchbreak, and there are many others available.

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The impact of the COVID pandemic on eating is more than how many loaves of sourdough or banana bread we're making. There are also higher risks for people with eating disorders. Listen as Dr. Allyson Cherkasky, an expert in eating and weight issues, discusses the unique challenges currently facing individuals who struggle with disordered eating.

Guest: Allyson Cherkasky, PhD

For concerns about eating, contact the National Eating Disorders Association or call their hotline at (800) 931-2237.

Find out about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders.

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Music: Wildlight

If you thought we were overusing our screens before the coronavirus, you hadn't seen anything! Digital media use is way up, as we now rely on our devices for work, school, shopping, and staying in touch with each other. Dr. Michael Rich, also known as The Mediatrician, guides us towards the best ways to help our children use digital media in safe and healthy ways.

Guest: Michael Rich, MD

Dr. Michael Rich is the founder and director of the Center on Media and Child Health, at Boston Children's Hospital. The Center is a great resource for anyone interested in raising digitally healthy youth.

The Family Digital Wellness Guide that Dr. Rich describes in the episode is a research-based parenting resource looking at the healthiest approaches to using digital media throughout childhood and adolescence.

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The world of work is suddenly different, thanks to COVID-19. Diane Grimard Wilson, licensed clinical professional counselor, career counselor, and executive coach steers us through the unknowns of employment's new uncertainties.

Guest: Diane Wilson, LCPC

Read what Diane writes about pivoting in a world with the coronavirus.

Diane talks about Dearborn Denim as an example of a company that pivoted during the pandemic, and does well.

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Preparing to go to college or to start your first job is a challenge in the best of circumstances. Becki Lauzon, a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, provides guidance.

Guest: Becki Lauzon, CRC

Read what Becki has to say about choosing a transition program, and watch her on Facebook Live. If you live in Massachusetts (or want a good model, here's some information about transitioning and available transition services in Massachusetts.

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Music: Wildlight