10 everyday habits that secretly increase stress
•August 5, 2026•

by Lauren Edwards

Community Outreach Coordinator at Virginia Recovery Centers

August is National Wellness Month, a time dedicated to prioritizing healthy habits and finding ways to improve overall well-being. While many people associate stress with major life events, such as work pressures, financial challenges, or personal struggles, everyday habits can also quietly contribute to feelings of tension, exhaustion, and burnout.

The good news is that small changes can make a meaningful difference. By recognizing common behaviors that may be increasing stress levels, it becomes easier to replace them with healthier routines that support mental, emotional, and physical wellness. Here are 10 everyday habits that may be adding unnecessary stress to your life (and what you can do instead).

1. Using alcohol to relax after a long day

More About Cowpens
•August 5, 2026•

by Janey Roney

Cowpens...what a strange name! It’s a town in northwestern South Carolina. During colonial times, cattle were gathered, pastured, and branded there. The Battle of Cowpens was fought there during the Revolutionary War in January of 1781 and was a resounding victory of Col. Daniel Morgan’s Patriot American militias over the British regular army led by Maj. Banastre Tarleton. It was one of the most significant American victories in the southern theater of the Revolutionary War and led to our victory at Yorktown. Our James Patterson, one of three Revolutionary War veterans buried in Moultrie, was there.  

One of James Patterson’s descendants, Andrew Patterson, wrote about his ancestor’s participation in the Battle of Cowpens in his book, The Love of a Father; Memoirs of Clyde Patterson Sr.  

What parents need to know as a new school year begins

•August 5, 2026•

By Angela Hogan

If you have a child in preschool through early elementary school, there’s a good chance you’ll deal with head lice at some point. It’s common, frustrating—and often misunderstood.

Recent local observations have highlighted this concern. Unfortunately, many families are unaware of the prevalence of head lice and how to prevent or eliminate them. Let’s break down this issue and what you can do to reduce your risk of exposure.

What To Know About Head Lice and “Super Lice”