Are You Okay?

Are You Okay? is a Substack centered on integrating mental and physical health through straight talk and evidence-based guidance. It emphasizes the role of self-compassion, conscious consumption, health awareness, and practical steps towards well-being, including managing anxiety, dietary advice, the impact of alcohol, and navigating healthcare.

Mental Health Physical Health and Nutrition Self-Compassion and Self-Acceptance Healthcare Navigation Alcohol and Substance Use Chronic Illness Management Anxiety and Stress Management Lifestyle and Behavioral Changes

The hottest Substack posts of Are You Okay?

And their main takeaways

Friday Q&A: COVID update; Long COVID; waning effectiveness of Ozempic/Wegovy; & the endless stuffy nose

519 implied HN points • 22 Dec 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Long Covid
  1. COVID patients with immunity from the vaccine and past infection have a lower risk of needing hospital care; boosts for higher-risk patients and maintaining overall health are crucial prevention measures.
  2. It's important to stay updated on ways to prevent and manage serious COVID outcomes; resources like Holiday Survival Guide offer tips for reckoning with COVID.
  3. Long COVID cases are still being reported; staying informed and seeking medical guidance are important for individuals experiencing prolonged symptoms.

Your Holiday Survival Guide: Part 2

499 implied HN points • 18 Dec 23
  1. During the holidays, it's important to balance indulgence with self-compassion and kindness to yourself when things don't go perfectly.
  2. Be mindful of the messages you send to your children about food and body image to promote a healthy relationship with food during the holidays.
  3. Strive for an imperfect, yet meaningful holiday season, as perfectionism can lead to unnecessary stress and impact mental and physical health.

Friday Q&A: assessing COVID risk; Ozempic/Mounjaro; booster shots; & CBD gummies for sleep

459 implied HN points • 15 Dec 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19 Medication Weight Loss Vaccination Mental health
  1. It's important to balance the risks associated with COVID-19 with the desire for social interaction and living a fulfilling life.
  2. Protecting against serious COVID outcomes involves getting vaccinated and optimizing health, while preventing infection means avoiding sick individuals and wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces.
  3. Decisions regarding COVID risk mitigation should be personalized, taking into account individual vulnerabilities and risk tolerance, and it's advised to consult with a healthcare provider for tailored advice.

Five Steps for Making Difficult Decisions

758 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Risk Assessment Mental health Self-care
  1. Life involves trade-offs, especially during situations like COVID where risks are present. Decisions need to balance the risk of doing something versus the risk of not doing it.
  2. COVID is here to stay, and managing risks associated with it requires breaking down decisions into assessing the risks and benefits of actions.
  3. When making difficult decisions involving health, it's vital to define personal values, understand facts, and weigh the risks of action versus inaction.
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Friday Q&A: Mounjaro vs. Ozempic; forgetfulness; the snoring bed partner; & COVID testing

439 implied HN points • 24 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Medication Memory Diabetes Obesity Well-being
  1. Mounjaro and Ozempic are medications for treating type 2 diabetes; Mounjaro also has a version for obesity, Zepbound. Both types of drugs improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood sugar levels, and promote weight loss.
  2. Forgetfulness about simple things like names of familiar items could be a part of normal aging rather than a sign of dementia. However, if there are persistent concerns, it's best to consult a healthcare provider.
  3. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and realistic expectations is essential for the effective use of medications like Mounjaro, Ozempic, and related drugs.

Friday Q&A about alcohol: social anxiety; general anxiety; dry November; & alcohol's upsides

499 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Substance Use Anxiety Well-being
  1. Alcohol consumption can temporarily ease social anxiety, but it's important to remember the risks associated with it.
  2. Socializing without alcohol is possible with strategies like informing friends, finding alternatives, and practicing assertiveness.
  3. Some individuals may feel less anxious after drinking alcohol due to its temporary effects, but it's crucial to be aware of the potential connection between anxiety and alcoholism in the family.

Friday Q&A: caregiver burnout; Ozempic; fall allergies vs. viral symptoms; & emotional eating

539 implied HN points • 20 Oct 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Caregiving Medication Nutrition Mental health Self-care
  1. When caring for aging loved ones, it's crucial to prioritize your own mental and physical health to prevent caregiver burnout.
  2. Shift your perception of control to restore agency and self-determination in your life, especially while taking care of others.
  3. In caregiving, meeting your basic biological needs like sleep, talking to someone, eating healthily, and moving your body is essential for long-term wellbeing.

Friday Q&A: Galleri cancer testing; Ozempic; lipoprotein(a) & heart disease; depression vs. seasonal blues

439 implied HN points • 10 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Medication Preventive measures
  1. The Galleri cancer test is a non-FDA-approved blood test that claims to detect over 50 types of cancer, but has limitations in accuracy with false negatives and false positives.
  2. When it comes to cancer screening, it is crucial to follow evidence-based recommendations such as mammography for breast cancer, colonoscopy for colon cancer, and other specific tests for high-risk individuals.
  3. For those concerned about cancer risk, focusing on known preventive measures like maintaining a healthy lifestyle, limiting alcohol and processed food intake, and regular exercise is important, alongside consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized screening recommendations.

Friday Q&A: calcium supplements; the Ozempic plateau; dry November; & light boxes for seasonal blues

399 implied HN points • 17 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Fitness Mental health Wellness Tips
  1. It's important to get enough calcium for strong bones, ideally from sources like dairy, green leafy vegetables, and fish with soft bones.
  2. When it comes to calcium supplements, consider factors like the type of calcium compound, absorption rates, and potential side effects like constipation.
  3. Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption, and while other nutrients like magnesium may be beneficial, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions with medications.

Friday Q&A: silent spread of COVID; full body MRI; Ambien risks; & quantifying risk

599 implied HN points • 29 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19 Risk Assessment Symptoms Preventive Care
  1. Some studies suggest that asymptomatic individuals with COVID-19 may have low viral infectivity, meaning they are less likely to spread the virus.
  2. Having a full-body MRI has benefits like early cancer detection, but it may not always be necessary for everyone and should be evaluated based on individual health considerations.
  3. Ensure to stay informed about current health topics and consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and guidance.

Are You Anxious?

878 implied HN points • 24 Jul 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Anxiety Therapy Physical health Self-awareness
  1. Anxiety is a natural part of being human and has been essential for our survival throughout history.
  2. Anxiety can have serious negative effects if triggered excessively or inappropriately over time, impacting both mental and physical health.
  3. Understanding your baseline anxiety level, triggers, coping mechanisms, and seeking help when needed are crucial steps in managing anxiety and improving overall well-being.

Q&A on alcohol use: binge drinking + marijuana use; supporting a sober spouse; Ozempic + alcohol cravings; & social anxiety + alcohol

299 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Substance Abuse Addiction Mental health Recovery
  1. Consider the impact of alcohol on your sleep, mood, physical health, and relationships to evaluate whether you may benefit from a break from drinking.
  2. Individuals may turn to substances like alcohol and marijuana due to anxiety and stress, but seeking help and being honest with oneself is key to addressing any substance use issues.
  3. Supporting a sober spouse involves open communication, understanding one's boundaries, and seeking help from resources like Al-Anon for loved ones of individuals in recovery.

Friday Q&A: COVID, masks, boosters & testing

599 implied HN points • 08 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19 Masks Vaccines Public Health Medical Advice
  1. High-grade, well-fitted, consistently-worn masks can help protect the individual against infection, but mask mandates have not shown to slow the spread of COVID.
  2. The Cochrane review published in January 2023 concluded that wearing masks 'probably makes little or no difference' to COVID outcomes on a population level.
  3. While masks can offer personal protection, mask mandates in 2023 may not be effective without evidence to support their impact and considering they are not a harm-free intervention.

Friday Q&A: answering your COVID questions

539 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID Prevention Risk Assessment Boosters Masks
  1. Public health experts suggest waiting 6 months after either a vaccine dose or infection to get a COVID booster.
  2. Fit-tested masks may only protect against exposure for a couple of hours; staying away from infected individuals while prioritizing sleep, good food, exercise, and outdoor time are key.
  3. For vulnerable family members, especially those with autoimmune diseases or elderly, balancing social interactions and precautions remains a challenge despite vaccinations and boosters.

Friday Q&A: intermittent fasting; alcohol & marijuana use; Diet Coke; & blood testing for menopause?

459 implied HN points • 06 Oct 23
🏥 Health & Wellness
  1. Intermittent fasting works for some, but it may not be sustainable for everyone due to feelings of irritability or anxiety. Extreme diets don't often lead to long-term success; realistic and sustainable lifestyle changes are key.
  2. Recent reports suggest that binge drinking and marijuana use among middle-aged adults are at all-time high levels. It's essential to consider the implications and consequences of such behaviors on overall health and well-being.
  3. It's important to critically assess trendy health practices with caution and consider individual needs and responses. Consultation with medical professionals and incorporating evidence-based practices are crucial for making informed decisions about health and wellness.

Friday Q&A: More COVID Queries!

499 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19 Vaccines Public Health Immune System Medical Advice
  1. Individuals may receive conflicting advice on COVID boosters due to factors like age, health conditions, and immunity status. Consult with a healthcare provider to assess personal risk and benefits.
  2. Protection against severe COVID relies on T cells activated by past vaccines or infections, even if it has been a while since the last shot. Booster shots are especially beneficial for high-risk groups.
  3. Long-lasting symptoms like voice changes post-COVID recovery may occur. Always seek medical advice for persistent symptoms to determine if they are temporary or need further evaluation.

Friday Q&A: All About Blood Clots🩸

419 implied HN points • 13 Oct 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Risk Factors Prevention Medical conditions
  1. Virchow's Triad describes major factors contributing to blood clot formation: Stasis of Blood Flow, Endothelial Injury, and Hypercoagulability.
  2. Thrombosis can lead to serious conditions like heart attacks and strokes, and it can occur in both veins and arteries.
  3. Risk factors for developing thrombosis can be acquired or inherited, and they vary between venous and arterial thrombosis.

Can Dietary Supplements Do Harm?

619 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Supplements Well-being Medicine Lifestyle
  1. Nature is beneficial, but not all solutions come in pill form. Many health issues can be addressed by examining and adjusting everyday habits.
  2. Be cautious with dietary supplements and always consider potential interactions with medication. Speak to your doctor about all the supplements you are taking.
  3. Check the credibility of information sources when considering supplements. Not all supplements are regulated closely, so it's important to seek certified products and reliable sources.

How to Ditch Bad Habits for Good

459 implied HN points • 28 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Wellness Medical Advice Mindset Recovery
  1. Approximately 80 million Americans do not have a primary care doctor, leading many to seek health advice online.
  2. Modern medicine often prioritizes testing and medications over patient-centered care, contributing to the rise of the wellness industry.
  3. Michael Easter promotes choosing short-term discomfort for long-term benefits, aiming to inspire people to be '2 percenters' who make healthier choices.

Friday Q&A: COVID, flu & RSV - oh my!

479 implied HN points • 18 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccines Healthcare Well-being Prevention
  1. The latest COVID sub-variant, EG.5, is becoming a dominant strain in the U.S., but it doesn't seem to be more contagious or cause more serious disease than prior variants.
  2. Vaccines still offer good protection against serious disease from EG.5, and the new booster expected at the end of September should provide good coverage against severe outcomes from this variant.
  3. To protect yourself this fall/winter, it's advised to get vaccinated, care for underlying health issues, prioritize sleep, exercise, healthy eating, and have regular check-ups with your doctor.

Friday Q&A: Finding The Right Doctor

279 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Patient Advocacy
  1. Finding a good primary care doctor is important for both sickness and wellness, as they can help prevent disease and promote wellness.
  2. When looking for a doctor, consider factors like active listening, evidence-based recommendations, and willingness to refer patients to other specialists.
  3. It's crucial to establish a good patient-doctor relationship from the start, focusing on trust, communication, and teamwork in healthcare.

Friday Q&A: a mental health roundup

539 implied HN points • 28 Jul 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Aging Anxiety Alcohol Trauma
  1. As people age, they may encounter different life changes and challenges that can contribute to feelings of anxiety, such as health issues, social isolation, and economic worries.
  2. Anxiety is a complex condition influenced by genetics, life experiences, health status, and lifestyle choices. Seeking help from medical professionals and engaging in self-care practices can help improve overall mental health.
  3. Despite alcohol temporarily reducing anxiety symptoms for some individuals, there is a connection between alcohol and anxiety, especially in those with a family history of alcoholism and anxiety disorders.

Is Dry January a Good Idea?

1078 implied HN points • 03 Jan 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Alcohol Addiction Mental health Self-reflection Recovery
  1. Alcohol use can have negative effects on our bodies and minds, even if it seems pleasurable in the moment.
  2. The appropriate amount of alcohol to drink varies for each person, and self-awareness is crucial in evaluating alcohol consumption.
  3. Identifying and addressing the underlying reasons for drinking, such as uncomfortable emotions or bodily sensations, is important to develop healthier habits.

Friday Q&A: masks; long COVID; new COVID treatments; & waning immunity

698 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID Long Covid Masks Immunity
  1. The effectiveness of population-level mask mandates is debatable, but wearing a high-quality, well-fitted mask consistently can provide some individual protection against infections.
  2. It's important to acknowledge that COVID is a persistent risk, and while vaccines and immunity help, individuals should assess their personal risk tolerance and take actions to mitigate their exposure.
  3. Stay informed and proactive in managing personal health, including staying up-to-date on vaccinations, addressing underlying health conditions, and boosting overall immunity through nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management.

Friday Q&A: Menopause Mashup

499 implied HN points • 21 Jul 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Menopause Hormone Therapy Health Risks Treatment Women's Health
  1. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be considered before menopause if a woman is experiencing menopausal symptoms and low estrogen is identified as the cause.
  2. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is generally safe for healthy women when started within 10 years of menopause, and the benefits usually outweigh the risks.
  3. Continuing hormone replacement therapy after the age of 65 should be assessed based on individual health risks and conditions to determine if the benefits still outweigh the potential downsides.

OMG Are We Masking Again?

619 implied HN points • 09 Jun 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Air Quality Safety measures Chronic Conditions
  1. Increased wildfire activity due to climate change is causing a rise in toxic particulate pollution in the air, impacting everyone's health but particularly risky for those with chronic conditions.
  2. Wildfire smoke contains harmful PM2.5 particles that can lead to respiratory issues, trigger asthma flares, and increase the risk of viral infections.
  3. To protect yourself from wildfire smoke, monitor air quality, keep windows closed when AQI is high, use air purifiers with HEPA filters, avoid outdoor exercise in hazy air, and consider wearing a KN95 or N95 mask if at high risk.

Our Stories Live In Our Bodies

639 implied HN points • 29 May 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mind-Body Connection Physical health
  1. Our physical bodies hold our life experiences and play a crucial role in our well-being.
  2. We may take our mobility and health for granted until they are compromised, impacting our mental and physical health.
  3. Stories of overcoming physical challenges show that resilience and growth are possible beyond our physical limitations.

To Boost or Not to Boost?

658 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Booster shots Vaccine Efficacy
  1. The new CDC guidance suggests that people aged 65+ and those who are immune-compromised may get a second booster shot, while healthy adults under 65 can wait until fall to decide.
  2. For individuals over 65, it might be advisable to wait until fall for a booster unless certain conditions like time since the last dose or last COVID infection exceed specific durations.
  3. People not in the recommended booster groups may not need a booster yet, especially if their risk for hospitalization is low, and the potential harms of the vaccine should be considered.

Friday Q&A: about menopause providers; ozempic; when to see a therapist; & … do physical exams matter?

359 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Menopause Weight Loss Therapy
  1. Finding a reputable menopause doctor can be done through organizations like the North American Menopause Society for certified practitioners or by educating your own doctor about the latest data on hormone replacement therapy.
  2. The use of Ozempic for weight loss raises ethical concerns for some individuals, especially if they have a history of yo-yo dieting. It's important to carefully consider the implications before starting this medication.
  3. The Q&A post covers various health topics like menopause providers, Ozempic use, seeing a therapist, and the relevance of physical exams, providing valuable insights for readers.

Friday Q&A: dismissed by doctors; ADHD vs. inattention; vaccines before visiting baby; & osteoporosis meds

519 implied HN points • 23 Jun 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Wellness Mental health Parenting
  1. Medical tests may not always show the full extent of a person's suffering. It's important to communicate to your doctor how your symptoms impact your daily life.
  2. Distinguishing between normal inattention and ADHD can be tricky. Look for consistent patterns of behavior and consider seeking professional advice if unsure.
  3. Advocating for yourself and ensuring your story is heard in medical settings is crucial. Ask questions, seek clarity, and don't hesitate to communicate your concerns.

It’s Okay to Not Be Okay

878 implied HN points • 10 Jan 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Self-care Nutrition Exercise Well-being
  1. Health is more than just physical metrics like blood pressure; it also encompasses how we feel, think, and behave in our daily lives.
  2. Being healthy involves honesty, asking for help, and building structure and support where needed, rather than quick fixes or fad diets.
  3. Prioritize four key elements for health: Sleep, Talk, Eat, Move, remembering that self-care is about meeting basic needs and nurturing a foundation for overall well-being.

Friday Q&A: treating substance abuse; Diet Coke & cancer risk; & how to get a decent lunch on the go

439 implied HN points • 14 Jul 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Nutrition Addiction Cancer Treatment
  1. Treating substance abuse requires a comprehensive approach that addresses unique factors like genetics, behavior, and situations. Medications like Vivitrol (Naltrexone) can be effective in preventing relapse by blocking the effects of substances on the brain.
  2. The link between Diet Coke (containing aspartame) and cancer risk isn't definitively established. Recently, the World Health Organization mentioned a potential association, but more research is needed to confirm this connection.
  3. Supporting a loved one through substance abuse treatment involves holistic care, including counseling, behavioral therapies, and lifestyle adjustments. It's crucial to tackle underlying issues like trauma for long-term recovery.

Friday Q&A: Vitamins & Supplements

319 implied HN points • 11 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Supplements Vitamins Diet
  1. Juice cleanses may not provide significant health benefits and can lead to negative side effects like headaches and irritability.
  2. Long-term, sustainable changes in diet, such as eating fruits and vegetables, three solid meals a day, and regular fullness, are recommended over juice cleanses.
  3. Vitamin B12 supplements may be necessary in certain cases, like when levels are low due to specific conditions, even though vitamins can sometimes be unnecessary.

Friday Q&A: COVID, flu & RSV

279 implied HN points • 25 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Health Vaccines Infections Medication Immune System
  1. Do not worry about taking over-the-counter medications like Ibuprofen for common vaccine side effects; they do not significantly affect vaccine effectiveness.
  2. It is possible for individuals to contract Covid, flu, and RSV at the same time; the severity of the illness can vary depending on the individual's health condition.
  3. Consult with your doctor if you are taking immunosuppressants while considering getting a vaccine; adjustments may be needed to ensure vaccine efficacy.

Can Humor Heal?

479 implied HN points • 08 May 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Humor Mental health Physical health Wellness Self-care
  1. Laughter and positivity can have a significant impact on physical and mental health, boosting the immune system, reducing stress, and improving cardiovascular health.
  2. Accept that life can be serious and challenging, but incorporating humor into it can make tough times easier to navigate and lead us to other joys.
  3. Make room for intentional laughter in daily life through activities like watching funny movies, reading jokes, and practicing laughter yoga; finding humor in everyday situations can bring joy and connect us with others.