Blue Monday Unplugged: Understanding Mental Health Triggers
Post the holiday season, once all of the festivities have well and truly wound down, January is a month generally lacking in excitement. Then comes Blue Monday — dubbed the saddest day of the year. It’s designated to fall on the third Monday of each new calendar year. This year, Blue Monday falls on January 20th, […]
Mental Health Over Muscle Strength: Building Superbowl Champions
Ever wondered what it takes to build a Superbowl champion? While we get to see them at peak performance and think it’s all about muscle strength, there is also a considerable amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to develop optimum mental health, making their achievements seem so effortless. This is a fact […]
Is There A Magic Treatment For Depression?
No longer just a popular as a party drug from the 60s, studies now suggest that the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, psilocybin, might help treat depression and other mental health issues. While there are already plenty of effective medications for depression, psilocybin offers hope for those who don’t respond to regular medicine for depression […]
Tips to Prevent Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
A few weeks ago, almost overnight, the temperature where I live dropped enough to be considered sweater weather. I had about three minutes of excitement about cute fall outfits and hot soups before remembering that winter makes me SAD. And I don’t mean to emphasize the word SAD; I’m talking about a thing called Seasonal […]
Introducing Dopamine
Dopamine is a chemical messenger that plays a vital role in transmitting signals between nerve cells in the brain. It is often referred to as a “feel-good” neurotransmitter because it contributes to feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. However, dopamine’s role extends beyond just making people feel good. It is involved in several vital processes, including […]
Polls Show Anxiety in Almost 50% of Americans
The 2024 annual mental health poll by the American Psychiatric Association reveals rising anxiety rates in the U.S. among adults, with 43% feeling more anxious than last year. Yet, only 24% have consulted a mental health professional about it. Stress and lack of sleep appear to be two of the main factors contributing to anxiety. […]
How to Make Friends with Your Anxiety: Lessons from Inside Out 2
The first time I saw Inside Out, I was blown away by their depiction of mental health and their gentle handling of depression in particular. It is beautiful and brilliant, and it is so easy for both kids and adults to understand. In “Inside Out 2,” Riley is entering puberty and navigating new emotions, such […]
Stress Management: A Blueprint for Better Health and Well-being
Relentless work pressure, an unexpected bill we hadn’t budgeted for, sick kids, and a messy house, and we feel like all we’re doing is just keeping our heads above water. Stress is a normal part of life, and sometimes, it even serves a purpose. Stress can motivate us to finish that project before the deadline or […]
You’re Not Alone: Treatment Options for Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive disorder, or what is commonly known as depression, is a significant mood disorder that affects millions of people globally. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or enjoyment in usual activities. These symptoms can linger for extended periods, significantly disrupting an individual’s everyday life and overall […]
Living with a parent with Alzheimer’s
This year, the prospect of celebrating Father’s Day on June 16th feels like a moment that requires some reflection for me. I recently completed the mourning period following my father’s passing, making this an emotionally challenging time. As our family gathers on the big day, I hope we can embrace the essence of the occasion […]
