Let’s Make The World A Better Place by Dr. Tennille Johnson

Dr. Tennille Johnson is a Mother, Clinical Pharmacist, Fashionista, Community Activist, Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, and Entrepreneur. She is the CEO and Co-Founder of Scrubs To The Rescue, a local retailer of medical uniforms and accessories located in Houston, Texas. She believes when you look good, you feel good.

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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), health is defined as being “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Post-COVID-19, the healthcare habits of Americans have become progressively worse, especially in the area of social well-being (i.e., social isolation and loneliness).  The Pandemic has disrupted many regular aspects of our life, changing the way we communicate, work, and our behaviors. An estimated 26% of Americans aged 18 and older suffer from a diagnosis of mental health, of which 9% account for major depression, with women suffering twice as much as men. That means 1 in 4 adults experience some type of mental illness every year. 

As a pharmacist, we are trained to focus on traditional medicine.  But COVID-19 has really taught us that it is just as important if not more to focus on your mental health and overall well-being. Traditionally people have done this through getting proper sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising more, staying away from smoking and alcohol, being social, meditation, counseling, etc. These techniques have helped to reduce the challenges of living everyday life. 

There are also nontraditional ways to improve overall well-being and maintain a healthier lifestyle. I was actually made aware of it when my daughter was suffering from social anxiety many years ago. As an only child, she experienced loneliness and lacked a sense of belonging. I saw a dramatic change for the better once we adopted our dog Pebbles. Today, I now recognize her as an Emotional Support Animal (ESA). There are numerous studies that show the benefits animals have in our lives. In 1984, Edward O Wilson, an American biologist discovered that animal interactions help to sustain life. The impact was profound, including lowering blood pressure, diminishing the release of harmful hormones, decreasing anxiety, stimulating immune function, and reducing symptoms of depression. 

As a result, my company Scrubs To The Rescue.com has incorporated the social cause of bringing awareness to overall well-being and healthy lifestyles into our business models. This year, we will focus on education and supporting organizations that focus on training emotional support animals. As a specialty retailer of medical scrubs, we already have the look-good, feel-better part covered.  It’s also our mission to help professionals live well, one healthcare professional at a time. 

So, the next time you see a dog, cat, or any other pet, remember that animals are good for the soul. I love this quote: “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened” by Anatole France. Let’s continue to support and look for ways to lift each other up! 

Learn more about Dr. Tennille Johnson

Websbite: www.scrubstotherescue.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/scrubs-to-the-rescue Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/scrubstothrescue1/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scrubstotherescue/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scrubs2therescue/