Objectives | Karen's Story

Objectives

●Motivate health care professionals and the public to become better advocates for themselves, family, loved ones and patients

● Educate health professionals alongside the general public on current health issues

● Inform the Central Valley Community of the most current health research

● Discuss a wide range of topics that are sure to satisfy the needs of the Central Valley Community

● Bring to light health issues which are under-discussed in our community

● Offer health education to underserved populations through scholarships

Karen’s Story


As Karen Esajian’s personal mental health journey has saved lives, she has been an inspiration to many people…

As I have discovered physicians and researched information to answer my own health questions and concerns, it is my desire to bring together health professionals in an educational setting that is both informative and inspirational. The struggle I have experienced with hormone and chemical imbalance has motivated me to create Update On Health. Happy, productive and high energy describes the person I was most of my life, however, twelve years ago it all changed. I lost energy, became depressed and unable to function normally. I had experienced times in my life with similar feelings, but assumed I had seasonal affective disorder. This occurs when the sun is not shining similar to a typical Fresno winter. These periods of depression would eventually disappear and I would once again become energetic, able to do what I love most-cooking, entertaining, planning events, making boutique items and raising my three boys.

As a dental hygienist I am an educated health professional who naturally knew the value of seeking medical attention when necessary. During my depression I visited various doctors; ultimately it was determined that I was experiencing side affects from entering menopause. After taking estrogen hormone replacement therapy, I began feeling better mentally and physically. It was at this time that I first began organizing women’s health lectures, in hopes of reaching other women dealing with similar issues.

It was not the end of my problems. After remaining hormone and chemically balanced for many years, in 2000 I experienced a deep depression and again could not function normally. The mental illness became debilitating and I was in and out of many neuro-psychiatric facilities with a final one month stay at Las Encinas in southern California.

My mental health journey has been traumatic, but the education I received has been invaluable. I was a survivor thanks to knowledgeable doctors who ultimately diagnosed my illness as Bipolar Disease. With continued treatment, research and support from family and friends, I have sustained good mental and physical health allowing me to be a highly productive person.

As you depart on your own health journey, I hope our events will mentally and visually stimulate you to continue educating yourself-creating a healthier life style. Together we can learn how to achieve optimum health throughout our lives! My wish is that you too can be motivated to help yourself and others find perfect balance.


More Information:
Community Medical Center