Disaffected Newsletter

Disaffected Newsletter explores societal, cultural, and political issues through the lens of personal trauma and abnormal psychology. It discusses manipulation in relationships, the impact of family dynamics, toxic femininity, immigration, political loyalties, modern taboos, and societal divides, offering critiques of contemporary norms and policies.

Societal Divides Cultural Critiques Family Dynamics Politics and Leadership Mental Health Gender and Identity Immigration Media and Public Perception

The hottest Substack posts of Disaffected Newsletter

And their main takeaways

Public Suicide is Not a Selfless Act

2657 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Mental health Social Issues Psychology Public Discourse Philosophy
  1. Public suicide is not a selfless act and often stems from deep personal issues. It can be a cry for help that hurts others rather than a noble gesture.
  2. People who take their own lives in dramatic ways can leave lasting scars on their loved ones. This behavior is often more about their pain than about any cause they claim.
  3. Understanding the psychological struggles behind suicidal actions is important. It helps us see that those who suffer are not the only ones affected; their actions impact many others too.

Cruel to be kind

1438 implied HN points • 30 Apr 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Self-help Personal Growth Narcissism Mental health
  1. Sometimes people need to face pain or harsh truths to make real changes in their lives. Hitting rock bottom can help someone start fresh.
  2. It's okay to feel conflicted about wanting others to experience hardship. That struggle can lead to deeper understanding and personal growth.
  3. Facing difficult realities, like unhealthy relationships or addiction, can lead to positive transformation. Growing through pain often brings clarity and strength.

New! The Weekly Bric-a-Brac

1258 implied HN points • 09 May 24
🎭️ Culture Music Art Fashion Social Issues Food
  1. There's a feeling that popular music has changed for the worse, becoming more aggressive and lacking melody. It used to connect more positively with listeners.
  2. Many people feel nostalgic for past times when quality and competence seemed better in society, from everyday goods to music and interactions.
  3. Some want to preserve their childhood memories as they are, without looking them up online or experiencing them again. They fear losing the magic of those memories.

Family was never the problem

3836 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Family Identity Social Issues Mental health Parenting
  1. Not all families are the same, and many people come from backgrounds that are abusive and damaging. It's important to recognize that these experiences can shape how we view family.
  2. A loving and stable family is necessary for healthy child development. When children experience abuse, it not only affects them but also society as a whole.
  3. It's possible to change our views and support good family values, even if we had difficult pasts. Focusing on building positive family structures can lead to a better future.

Weekly Bric-a-Brac

979 implied HN points • 28 May 24
🎭️ Culture Media Society Entertainment Identity Consumerism
  1. People should be honest about their feelings, even if they don't always align. It's okay if someone doesn't agree with you; what matters is being real and understanding.
  2. Narcissism, rather than gender, is a key factor when judging hurtful behavior. Both men and women can act badly, and it's important to see that it's not just about being a man or a woman.
  3. Getting good value for your money is important. Nowadays, store brands often offer just as good quality as name brands, so it's smart to shop wisely.
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An emotion I can't name

1518 implied HN points • 20 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Identity Emotion Family Memory Society
  1. Sometimes we have feelings that are hard to describe. They can be a mix of sadness, protectiveness, and understanding for others who might not have much.
  2. Beauty can come from simple things in life. Special items, even if not expensive, can carry deep emotional meaning from loved ones.
  3. It's important to recognize and appreciate the struggles of others. Making fun of their situations can hurt, and we should approach their joys with kindness.

Odds and ends

1418 implied HN points • 24 Apr 24
🎙 Podcasts Content creation Social media Communication Education Personal Growth
  1. Many fans of content creators develop a strong emotional connection and may feel betrayed if they disagree on issues. It's important to recognize this tendency and keep your reactions in check.
  2. Younger generations often struggle with basic writing skills, making it harder for them to communicate clearly. This gap shows how education has changed over time.
  3. Copyright law is often misunderstood, especially with platforms like YouTube enforcing their own rules. Many people don’t realize that fair use allows for commentary and critique without violating copyright.

Suspended emotion

1538 implied HN points • 15 Apr 24
🎶 Music Music theory Emotional Expression Personal Reflection
  1. Music can be deeply emotional, and sometimes it can be tough to face those feelings. Taking a break from music during hard times can seem like a way to protect ourselves.
  2. Suspended notes in music create tension and beauty, making songs feel more powerful. This technique helps our hearts connect with the music on a deeper level.
  3. Understanding some music theory can enhance our listening experience. It shows us how sound works and helps us appreciate music more, even if we're not musicians ourselves.

If at first you don't succeed

1858 implied HN points • 24 Mar 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Personal Growth Self-care Medication Depression
  1. It's okay to seek help when struggling with mental health. Sometimes, taking medication like an SSRI can really make a difference.
  2. Experiencing tough times like despair and insomnia is really hard, but it's important to keep trying to find solutions.
  3. Getting back to feeling better might take time, but small improvements can lead to being able to do everyday tasks again.

Clownfish Carnival

879 implied HN points • 26 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Criminal Justice Media Analysis Social Issues Psychology Cultural Commentary
  1. Some states are changing how we label criminals, calling them 'justice-impacted individuals' instead. This shift might confuse the moral understanding of victims and criminals.
  2. A new NBC documentary called 'Queer Planet' is being discussed, which features people talking about gender and sex. A psychoanalyst will explore what this means for our society.
  3. There's concern about the younger generation lacking proper upbringing or 'home training.' People wonder how this will affect society in the future.

How I Stopped Hating Guns

679 implied HN points • 12 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gun Control Self defense Government Role Mental health
  1. The author had a history of hating guns but began to rethink this perspective after personal experiences and conversations with a friend.
  2. Having a gun in the house made the author feel uneasy at first, but they took a step towards embracing self-reliance.
  3. The author realized that understanding guns was important for feeling more secure and less dependent on government protection.

We're all borderline now

2198 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Mental health Media influence Political Discourse Social Dynamics Crisis Management
  1. Many people are feeling confused and overwhelmed because of constant lies and craziness around them. This affects everyone, no matter their political beliefs.
  2. We're all starting to show signs of being more emotionally unstable, like having a mix of strong negative feelings and losing touch with reality.
  3. Despite the anger towards those we disagree with, there's a growing sense of empathy and sadness for everyone's struggles. It reminds us that we all want a better world based on understanding and kindness.

Modern taboos and social media

3716 implied HN points • 03 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Media influence Family Dynamics Morality Public Discourse
  1. Some people feel strongly that surrogacy is wrong because it separates children from their natural parents. They believe that the child's needs should come first in these situations.
  2. There are many theories about what causes homosexuality, but discussing these ideas can be difficult because of social pressures. Some people believe that past experiences or genetics might play a role.
  3. Social media often makes real conversations hard because people might react emotionally and try to score points rather than have genuine discussions. Some prefer platforms where they can share their thoughts without fear of negative backlash.

The Weight of the Tower of Babel

1998 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Discourse International relations Conflict analysis Media Critique Ethics
  1. Discussions about the conflict between Israel and Hamas often lead to intense and aggressive arguments. Many people feel afraid to ask honest questions due to backlash or harsh reactions.
  2. The actions and motives of both Hamas and Israel are highly controversial. Understanding the truth about their military actions and claims is very difficult.
  3. There is a sense that current societal discussions are unhealthy, as they often resemble a toxic relationship where honest conversation feels unsafe.

Thank God for Re-runs

2497 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Television Nostalgia Generational Media Education
  1. Re-runs of old TV shows helped connect generations. They showed a version of life that parents and grandparents recognized but kids see as old-fashioned.
  2. Modern technology has changed quickly, and young people today don't have the same cultural links to the past that older generations had. This leaves them feeling disconnected.
  3. The absence of re-runs and gradual cultural change might contribute to a lack of understanding or appreciation for older ways of life, leading to discomfort with things from the past.

Getting a new tooth

1199 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Dental Health Mental health Medical Procedures Personal Finance Aesthetics
  1. Getting a dental implant can help you feel better about your appearance if you've lost a tooth. It's important to consider both the physical and mental effects of tooth loss.
  2. Delaying dental work can lead to more problems later, like losing jaw bone. Taking care of your teeth right away can save you money and hassle in the long run.
  3. The dental implant process involves several steps, but it doesn't have to be painful. With modern techniques and anesthetics, many people experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.

Breaking Biden: episode 178

439 implied HN points • 30 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Debates Political Commentary Media Conservatism
  1. Biden had a really tough time in the recent debate, and it was so bad that it might make you cry or laugh.
  2. Mike Harlow, a former leftist turned conservative, shares his experience of transitioning in New York City and discusses reactions from others in the LGBTQ+ community.
  3. The show also covers various topics, including interesting cultural discussions and funny moments related to politics.

There's got to be a morning after

2398 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Depression Anxiety Self-care Therapy
  1. Depression can feel overwhelming and isolating, but it's a temporary state that eventually lifts. It's important to remember that even in the worst times, things can improve.
  2. Understanding your past and your triggers can help in managing depression. It's not always about one specific cause or issue, but a mix of experiences and emotions.
  3. Finding small moments of joy or connection, like laughing or listening to music, can help you feel less alone. It's essential to hold onto those moments as signs of hope and recovery.

A Meal for Mommie

519 implied HN points • 17 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Current Events Political Figures Social Issues
  1. President Biden's mental state is becoming a bigger topic. Many are noticing his mistakes in public, and it's raising questions about how long Democrats will ignore this.
  2. Burlington's mayor, who has a good income, is accepting donations for food and gift cards, claiming it's because she's a working mom. This is stirring up discussions about support for working parents.
  3. The episode also features a light-hearted segment with funny clips and commentary on current trends and pop culture, showing a mix of serious and humorous topics.

Vignette: the borderline mother and son

919 implied HN points • 03 May 24
🎭️ Culture Psychology Family Dynamics Sociology Media Analysis Feminism
  1. A borderline mother can deeply affect her son, creating a toxic environment filled with shame and fear. It's hard to watch because it feels so real and painful.
  2. The relationship can become a cycle of manipulation and emotional abuse, where the mother enjoys causing distress. It’s like a dark game that leads to outbursts of rage.
  3. Children raised in this environment often feel like nothing truly belongs to them, as their mother disregards their feelings and possessions. This can lead to lasting emotional scars.

The gay-ification of heterosexuality

1099 implied HN points • 15 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture LGBTQ+ Social Trends Sexuality Identity Hedonism
  1. There's a noticeable trend where aspects of gay culture are becoming more common in heterosexual relationships. This includes things like experimental and adventurous approaches to sex.
  2. People are starting to see what was once considered edgy or restricted to the LGBTQ+ community as normal behavior for everyone.
  3. This shift raises questions about how we define sexuality and what is considered acceptable in relationships today.

"Please wait while we access the functions on this card"

1938 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Software Computing User Experience Hardware Automation
  1. Many everyday machines now have annoying delays when performing simple tasks that used to be instant, like using ATMs or accessing files. It's frustrating because these are basic functions.
  2. Modern devices often prioritize a fancy user experience over speed and efficiency, making us wait longer for actions that used to happen quickly. This creates a feeling of disconnect between users and their machines.
  3. The trend seems to be moving towards making everything software-controlled, even when it seems unnecessary. This can make basic interactions tedious and less intuitive for users.

Procrastination bric-a-brac

1218 implied HN points • 26 Mar 24
😂 Humor Satire Commentary Personal essays Cultural critique Social Commentary
  1. Procrastination can lead to random thoughts and observations, often making it hard to focus. It's okay to let your mind wander sometimes, even if it feels unproductive.
  2. Frustration with social media is common, especially with annoying accounts. It's important to take control of your online experience by blocking or ignoring negative distractions.
  3. Humor can be found in everyday annoyances, like pointless things we buy or use. It’s good to laugh at silly things, like complicated salt grinders.

When Ghosting Is Right

1698 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Emotional Support Relationships Self-care
  1. Sometimes, ghosting someone can protect your safety, especially if they are harmful or toxic. It’s okay to stop communication if it's necessary for your well-being.
  2. Not everyone acts like a normal person; some people can be manipulative or cruel. Being aware of these types can help you decide when to distance yourself.
  3. You shouldn't feel guilty about ghosting. It's important to trust your instincts and know when it's better to quietly back away from a relationship.

Do you know how controlled you are?

1338 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Design Human-Computer User Experience Automation Environment
  1. Machines are now designed to control how we use them, rather than serve our needs. This means we often have to jump through hoops to get them to work the way we want.
  2. Many modern designs prioritize environmental concerns over user convenience. For example, appliances automatically default to settings that may not be the most efficient for what we actually want.
  3. This shift in design reflects a broader issue where consumer products must comply with government mandates and societal goals rather than being created based on what people truly want.

Telephone troubles

2158 implied HN points • 03 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Telecommunications User Behavior Digital Culture Privacy
  1. People used to enjoy phone calls and felt excited when the phone rang. Now, many find modern phones annoying and feel they serve the demands of companies instead of the user’s needs.
  2. Modern phone users often lack manners and respect for privacy, using features like speakerphone in public without consideration for others. Many don’t think about how their calls affect those around them.
  3. Communication has shifted, and with it, the expectations of basic decency. It's important for users to remember to consider others’ comfort and privacy when making calls.

Does child abuse cause homosexuality?

759 implied HN points • 05 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Mental health Education Public Discourse Cultural Commentary
  1. The discussion explores the link between child abuse and homosexuality. It suggests that there might be connections worth investigating.
  2. Joseph Sciambra, who speaks from personal experience, highlights existing research on this topic. He emphasizes that there's literature supporting his views.
  3. The talk also touches on the behaviors seen in protests and violence at American colleges, linking those to psychological dynamics.

How do you talk to God?

1798 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Belief Prayer Doubt Guidance Existential
  1. Talking to God can feel confusing, especially if you're not sure He exists. It's okay to want to reach out even if you have doubts.
  2. Many people struggle with the feeling of not deserving help when asking for guidance. Remember, it's natural to seek support, regardless of your beliefs.
  3. Feeling like a fraud for wanting to connect with God is common. Just know that it's okay to explore your feelings and thoughts about spirituality.

Ave Maria

2058 implied HN points • 24 Dec 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Christianity Music Tradition Emotions
  1. Music can deeply affect our emotions and memories, often making us cry or feel overwhelmed, especially during special times like Christmas.
  2. Personal experiences, such as family traditions and moments of wonder, can leave a lasting impact and means of connection to our past.
  3. There's a desire for beauty and meaning in traditions, even if one doesn't fully believe in them, showing that these feelings are universal.

Goblins

3617 implied HN points • 24 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Mental health Identity politics Body Image Urban life
  1. There seems to be a growing visibility of individuals who challenge traditional gender norms and body sizes, leading to strong reactions from observers. This reflects a deep societal divide in understanding and acceptance.
  2. Some people feel a sense of distress when they see others who clearly struggle with their mental and physical health, leading to feelings of discomfort and resentment towards those individuals.
  3. The narrative suggests a belief that societal values around beauty and behavior are shifting, often leaving traditional views feeling out of place or invalidated in certain communities.

In Defense of Undertakers

1059 implied HN points • 19 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Consumer Advocacy Societal norms
  1. Funeral directors are often unfairly blamed for taking advantage of grieving families. Many people don't plan ahead or shop around for funeral services, but still end up upset with the costs after losing someone.
  2. While it's easy to complain about prices, we also need to recognize our part in the funeral process. Many customers don't take the time to explore their options, which leads to regret later.
  3. The way we handle death has changed a lot over time. Instead of being a family responsibility, it has become a commercial service, and we should reflect on how we contribute to that system.

Chronicling the fall

1338 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Media Analysis Cultural critique Public Discourse
  1. There is a sense of hopelessness and despair, as the world feels increasingly frightening and chaotic. Many people are struggling with their own sadness and depression while also being affected by the broader issues happening around them.
  2. The idea of being 'woke' and its widespread influence suggests that no community or belief system is untouched by this mentality. It's a call to recognize that these societal shifts are pervasive and can't be ignored.
  3. The urgency to push back against these negative trends is emphasized, warning that if we don't act, we might lose the safe spaces we once had. It's crucial to engage in discussions and take action to change the narrative.

POSTPONED-Disaffected

659 implied HN points • 04 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Psychology Cultural dynamics Social Issues Current Events
  1. Tech issues caused the postponement of the show to Sunday, May 5, at 9 pm. It's important to stay updated if you want to catch the episode.
  2. The upcoming show will discuss recent protests on American college campuses, focusing on their true motivations and implications. The host believes these protests are not genuinely about the issue of Gaza.
  3. The host connects the behavior on campuses to abusive dynamics seen in households. He aims to show how interpersonal conflicts are reflected in larger societal issues.

HEY! Watch Disaffected on Twitter Sunday Night!

599 implied HN points • 13 May 24
🎙 Podcasts Critique Media Streaming Entertainment Social media
  1. The show 'Disaffected' will be available on Twitter this Sunday at 9 pm Eastern time. People are encouraged to join and chat during the show.
  2. YouTube and Apple blocked a video from 'Disaffected', claiming it was unfairly flagged despite it being a fair use critique. This situation highlights concerns about censorship.
  3. Viewers are urged to support 'Disaffected' and help make the Twitter show a success after their struggles with other platforms.

Mrs. Inventosh

2817 implied HN points • 14 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture History Education Traditions Personal Stories Food
  1. Mrs. Inventosh taught her fifth-grade class about the Holocaust in a real and impactful way, sharing her own family's stories. These stories made history more relatable and memorable for the kids.
  2. She introduced her students to Jewish culture by cooking traditional foods like latkes in class. This gave kids a warm and welcoming experience that helped them understand different traditions.
  3. Mrs. Inventosh showed special care for her students, especially those who struggled. By encouraging a love for reading and taking time to connect individually, she made a lasting positive impact on their lives.

BIG NEWS TONIGHT!

719 implied HN points • 20 Apr 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Entertainment Broadcasting Live Events Audience engagement
  1. A live show will be happening tonight at 8 PM US Eastern time on Rumble. It's a great chance to watch and see how it goes, even if things go wrong.
  2. Viewers are encouraged to bring popcorn and share their thoughts, even if they're critical. It's meant to be a fun and interactive experience.
  3. The newsletter is reader-supported, and there are options to subscribe for more content. Supporting the work helps keep it going.

Oh no! Not episode 169!

639 implied HN points • 29 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Legal issues Government Policy Cultural critique Media Analysis
  1. Freaky Friday is no longer just one day; it feels like every day is weird and exaggerated in America. People are talking about strange things like AI girlfriends and AI that can be racist.
  2. New laws are causing confusion about gender rights, and there's concern over 'hate speech' becoming a real legal issue. It's raising alarms about people's freedoms and rights.
  3. Political ads have reached a bizarre level, with some campaigns resembling dystopian themes. There's also worry about hiring practices focused on race, leading to debates about fairness and legality.

Victim Vision: Episode 177

299 implied HN points • 24 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Race Issues Fake news Social Issues Dark humor Legislation
  1. There are cases of people fabricating hate messages and blaming them on others, raising questions about honesty in discussions on race.
  2. A report on black Americans' feelings about race has been revised after complaints, highlighting how data can be influenced by outside opinions.
  3. Some groups are pushing to change traditional language and address controversial topics, like gender and parenting, in unexpected ways.