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: on antidepressants; inattention; social anxiety; & “am I taking too many meds?”

359 implied HN points • 05 May 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Medication Therapy Anxiety Depression
  1. Consider the option of seeking medication for managing depression symptoms if other interventions are not fully effective.
  2. Medication can be a valuable tool in a holistic approach to mental health, when used appropriately and under medical supervision.
  3. When facing intrusive thoughts and anxiety, techniques like recentering oneself and avoiding spirals can be helpful to regain focus.

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.

The Future of this Newsletter

559 implied HN points • 15 Dec 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Physical health Wellness Community Support
  1. This newsletter, started during the COVID pandemic, has grown into a community of 20,000+ readers with a focus on various health topics like weight loss, aging, and mental health.
  2. Paid subscribers get access to exclusive features like private discussions, Q&A sessions, and a community bulletin board for health tips and insights.
  3. The focus of the newsletter is on providing evidence-based medical information to help people navigate physical and mental health, emphasizing the importance of living better, not just longer.

Friday Q&A: Statins & muscle aches; when is pain “normal”?; opioids for rheumatoid arthritis; & chronic pain

339 implied HN points • 16 Jun 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Pain management Body awareness
  1. Statin-induced muscle aches can vary from mild discomfort to severe muscle inflammation, influenced by factors like dose, age, gender, prior side effects, and family history.
  2. Different strategies can help manage statin-induced muscle aches, such as adjusting medication doses, considering other medications, maintaining healthy habits, and supplementing with Coenzyme Q10.
  3. It's vital to consult your healthcare provider to balance the potential side effects of statins with the benefits in reducing cardiovascular risk, as individual health profiles vary.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Friday Q&A: Irritable Bowel; HRT & breast cancer; sudden cardiac arrest; & tinnitus

339 implied HN points • 30 Jun 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Digestive Health Mental health General Health Women's Health Healthy living
  1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a real condition that affects a significant portion of the population, more commonly women, causing symptoms like cramping, pain, bloating, and more.
  2. Managing IBS involves keeping a food diary to identify trigger foods, checking medications for possible digestive effects, increasing fiber intake gradually, managing stress, and nurturing the gut microbiome by choosing the right foods.
  3. Individuals with family history of breast cancer and considering hormone replacement therapy should consult with healthcare providers, as factors like age, lifestyle habits, and specific health conditions play a role in decision-making.

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: BMI as bible; osteoporosis; posture & aging; & atrial fibrillation

319 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Fitness Nutrition Well-being Medication
  1. BMI is not always an accurate reflection of health, and other factors like fitness level, nutrition, and overall habits should be considered.
  2. For bone health, activities like yoga can be beneficial in improving bone mineral density, potentially even more so than traditional interventions like medication.
  3. Doctors and patients should focus on a holistic approach to health that considers genetic, hormonal, behavioral, nutritional, and psychological factors, rather than just relying on numbers like BMI.

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: urinary infections & incontinence; estrogen use in breast cancer patients; testosterone for women; & pelvic floor dysfunction

299 implied HN points • 19 May 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Women's Health Cancer Hormones
  1. For urinary incontinence, exploring options like vaginal estrogen can be beneficial if other medications are not successful and may improve symptoms.
  2. Management of genitourinary symptoms in estrogen+ breast cancer patients requires careful consideration due to vaginal atrophy, but vaginal estrogen therapy may still be an option to explore.
  3. Seeking specialist assessment for pelvic floor anatomy and function, and considering pelvic floor physical therapy, can help address issues like weak pelvic muscles contributing to urinary problems.

Friday Q&A: alcoholism in the family; marijuana use; food diaries; & supplements for stress

299 implied HN points • 07 Jul 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Addiction Mental health Family Dynamics Substance Use Physical health
  1. Supporting a loved one with addiction involves open communication and understanding their needs, without taking on the responsibility for their sobriety.
  2. Seeking support from resources like Al-Anon is beneficial for families dealing with addiction.
  3. The impact of marijuana use on youth and adults, including potential dependency, is a relevant topic to be aware of amidst its increasing legalization.

Friday Q&A: on "leaky gut"; artificial sweeteners; anxiety & gastrointestinal woes; & when to take a probiotic & test my microbiome?

299 implied HN points • 21 Apr 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Gut Health Medical Myths Nutrition Podcasts Q&A
  1. Leaky gut syndrome is not a recognized medical diagnosis, but it is a concept some believe in. Researchers see increased intestinal permeability as a symptom, not a standalone disorder.
  2. Chewing gum and artificial sweeteners can lead to gas and bloating for some individuals. Exploring alternatives to chewing gum might be beneficial for those experiencing these digestive issues.
  3. Understanding the individual factors contributing to gut health symptoms like gas, bloating, and irregular bowel movements is crucial. It's important to focus on identifying the underlying causes and managing symptoms with a patient-centered approach.

What Can Our Pelvic Floor Teach us About Motherhood?

279 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Motherhood Physical therapy Women's Health Self-care
  1. Strengthening our 'core' goes beyond a flat tummy; it involves building strength in deep pelvic muscles.
  2. Pelvic floor muscles help control waste elimination; squeezing narrows passages, relaxing widens them.
  3. Approximately 1 in 3 women experience pelvic floor dysfunction, and various exercises and therapies can help strengthen these muscles.

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.

Why Belonging Matters to our Health & Well-being

419 implied HN points • 27 Dec 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Belonging Inclusion Empathy Self-compassion
  1. Belonging involves feeling accepted and welcomed, while inclusion is about incorporating excluded individuals. Belonging is an emotional aspect compared to inclusion, which is more action-oriented.
  2. Feeling accepted and supported contributes to confidence and healthier habits. Conversely, exclusion and lack of belonging can lead to negative emotional impacts like anxiety and depression.
  3. Simple steps to help those struggling with belonging include active listening without interruption, empathizing with others, allowing space for people to share without immediately trying to fix their problems, and accepting individuals as they are.

Three Steps to Prevent Caregiver Burnout

339 implied HN points • 07 Feb 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Caregiving Burnout Self-compassion Mindset Tips
  1. Validating and practicing self-compassion are crucial to prevent caregiver burnout. It's normal to feel frustrated, guilty, and compassionate yet suffer from emotional and physical exhaustion.
  2. Shifting your mindset from feeling helpless to taking control of your life can restore your sense of agency. Accept areas you can't control and focus on what you can.
  3. Using tools like sleep, communication, proper nutrition, and movement can help manage caregiver stress. Self-care is essential, and setting boundaries and asking for help is vital.

How to Turn Injury into Opportunity

259 implied HN points • 03 Apr 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Physical health Mental health Healthy living
  1. Being aware of medical information and stories we tell ourselves is crucial for maintaining health and making informed decisions.
  2. Accepting temporary setbacks can be turned into opportunities for self-reflection and growth.
  3. Taking agency over our health involves proactive measures like medication, exercise, and nutrition to prevent and treat conditions.

Health Huddle: Where You are the Guru

379 implied HN points • 29 Dec 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Connection Friendship Grief Routine Volunteering
  1. Human connection is essential for health and well-being. Reach out, reconnect, and stay connected to others.
  2. Establishing a meaningful routine, engaging in volunteer work, and developing personal interests are crucial for a fulfilling retirement.
  3. In times of grief, making an effort to stay connected with friends and accept invitations, even if it feels uncomfortable, can help with the healing process.

Friday Q&A: On How Long to Take Antidepressants; Aging & Acceptance; Shame at the Doctor's Office, & Sleep.

299 implied HN points • 03 Feb 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Healthy aging
  1. The duration of taking antidepressants varies depending on the individual's situation and needs. Medication is not always a standalone solution and should be complemented with behavioral, chemical, and/or environmental changes.
  2. For seniors experiencing distressing changes like vision and hearing loss, it's important to communicate openly with their doctor about their needs for support and understanding rather than just medical solutions.
  3. Doctors should listen to patients, offer reassurance based on facts, and address the emotional needs of patients in addition to providing medical advice and solutions.

An Invitation to a Zoom Hangout with Me!

299 implied HN points • 15 Jan 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Personal Health
  1. Paid subscribers can participate in Zoom hangouts with Dr. Lucy McBride to discuss health topics.
  2. The upcoming discussion will focus on the meaning of being healthy, building on Dr. McBride's recent column.
  3. Subscribers can access the full post archives with a 7-day free trial of Are You Okay? newsletter.

Friday Q&A: a special feature on the new variant

299 implied HN points • 13 Jan 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Health News
  1. The post discusses the XBB.1.5 variant (aka "Kraken") and questions related to boosters, children's health, and the concept of a new normal.
  2. The Friday Q&A feature focuses on health-related discussions and invites paid subscribers to participate in Zoom hangouts.
  3. Access to full Friday Q&As will soon be exclusive to paid subscribers, with a 7-day free trial available for new readers.

Friday Q&A: "White Coat" Hypertension, When and How to Leave Your Doctor, Statin drugs, & COVID testing

279 implied HN points • 27 Jan 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Physical health Mental health Medical Advice
  1. When visiting the doctor, it's common for blood pressure to spike due to stress, known as 'white coat hypertension'. Monitoring blood pressure outside of the doctor's office can provide a more accurate picture.
  2. White coat hypertension can still be harmful if left untreated, so lifestyle changes like exercise, healthy eating, and stress management are important to help reduce overall blood pressure levels.
  3. The mind-body connection plays a significant role in blood pressure fluctuations, and stress management techniques can have a positive impact on both physical and emotional well-being.

Friday Q&A: Your Sex Questions!

199 implied HN points • 04 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Sexual Health Hormone Therapy Mental health Physical health
  1. Testosterone therapy for low sexual desire in women is not FDA-approved and is sometimes used off-label. It needs to be approached with caution due to potential risks and lack of long-term safety data.
  2. Low sex drive in a relationship doesn't always need fixing; some couples are content without sexual intimacy. Understanding and respecting each other's needs and choices is important.
  3. It's crucial to consider a variety of potential factors, from hormones to psychological aspects, when addressing low sexual desire. Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment is essential.

Friday Q&A: new mammogram guidelines; vitamin D; men asking for help; & preventing caregiver burnout

199 implied HN points • 12 May 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical care Vitamins Men's Health Caregiving Prevention
  1. New mammogram guidelines recommend starting regular mammograms at age 40, especially important for women with increased risk of breast cancer.
  2. Low vitamin D levels can be a concern, particularly if affected by skin tone and sunscreen use. Finding alternate sources or methods can help improve bone health, mood, and immune system.
  3. Engaging in screening and managing health concerns, like caregiver burnout, proactively can help prevent negative outcomes and improve overall well-being.

Friday Q&A: Diet Coke; Stomach Woes; Strength Training for Beginners; & Finding the Right Doctor for Menopause

219 implied HN points • 03 Mar 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Fitness Supplements Metabolism
  1. Consuming Diet Coke daily doesn't completely negate healthy eating habits, but it's worth considering the potential downsides such as caffeine content and artificial sweeteners.
  2. Individual responses to gas, bloating, and irregular bowel movements can vary, and there isn't one-size-fits-all advice for using probiotics to address these issues.
  3. Health is about balancing risks and rewards, and making choices that work best for your body and well-being, whether it's enjoying certain habits or deciding to make changes for better health.

Friday Q&A: On Treating Heartburn; Selecting the Best Doctor; Insomnia; & How to Triage Your Medical “To-Dos”

219 implied HN points • 24 Feb 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Advice Insomnia
  1. Heartburn can be triggered by factors like acidic foods, excess weight, medications, stress, and certain behaviors like lying down after eating a heavy meal. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors, but it's essential to consult with a doctor for personalized advice.
  2. When seeking a doctor who integrates mind, body, and spirit, it's crucial to prioritize finding a healthcare provider who will listen, understand your needs, and offer holistic care beyond just prescribing medications.
  3. Consider lifestyle modifications alongside medication for managing health issues. It's possible to strike a balance that allows you to continue enjoying things like coffee while also taking necessary steps to address your condition.

Friday Q&A: on Risks After COVID; Booster Shots; New Vaccine Formulas; & COVID During Pregnancy

199 implied HN points • 17 Mar 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID Vaccines Long Covid General Health Pregnancy
  1. Information on COVID risks and booster shots was addressed in a Friday Q&A session. It's important to consider context and accurate data when evaluating health risks associated with COVID infection.
  2. Having had previous COVID infection or vaccination can impact the likelihood of 'long COVID' symptoms in case of reinfection, with different considerations for teens and young adults.
  3. Viral infections like COVID can worsen existing health conditions, highlighting the importance of understanding individual health contexts and risks.

Friday Q&A: Preventing, Testing for & Treating Viral Infections

279 implied HN points • 23 Dec 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Prevention Testing Treatment Viral Infections Q&A
  1. The post discusses preventing, testing for, and treating viral infections, focusing on how to navigate situations involving fevers.
  2. There is an offer for a 7-day free trial to subscribe for more detailed information and access to full post archives.
  3. There is an invitation to engage by asking questions for future Friday Q&A sessions.

Medical Mysteries #2: A Case of Burning Mouth Syndrome

199 implied HN points • 08 Mar 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Women's Health Symptoms
  1. Burning Mouth Syndrome can cause discomfort like a burning sensation in the mouth and tongue. If experiencing these symptoms, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
  2. Medical mysteries like these can often leave individuals feeling worried and unsure. Seeking medical advice and understanding more about the condition can help manage concerns and find solutions.
  3. Participating in discussions and seeking information from healthcare providers can provide insights and support for managing health conditions like Burning Mouth Syndrome.

Can Exercise Be Unhealthy?

199 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Exercise Weight Loss Mental health Physical health
  1. Decouple exercise from weight loss and worthiness to establish a healthier relationship with physical activity.
  2. Exercise doesn't always directly lead to weight loss, so focus on making exercise fun, social, and sustainable instead of solely aiming for shedding pounds.
  3. Mix up your exercise routine to prevent overuse injuries and set realistic goals for long-term success, while allowing yourself rest days without feeling guilty.

Transcript: Wellness Expert Michael Easter Answers My Questions About Health

159 implied HN points • 28 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Wellness Habits Fitness Nutrition Behavior Change
  1. In a comfortable world, avoiding discomfort for health can lead to unhealthy habits like overeating and lack of movement.
  2. Technology has enabled us to fulfill our cravings easily, leading to challenges in recognizing when we have 'enough'.
  3. Understanding the 'why' behind bad habits is essential for changing them; replacing bad habits with good ones without addressing the root cause is like hitting the gas with your foot still on the brake.

Friday Q&A: Low Back Pain; Full Body MRIs; Sustainable Exercise; & OUCH My Ribs Hurt!

159 implied HN points • 07 Apr 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Advice Physical therapy Pain management
  1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen can help with lower back pain but have risks if used long-term.
  2. Manual therapies such as physical therapy and exercises are effective and sustainable options to treat low back pain and improve strength and flexibility.
  3. Full body MRIs as a health screening tool lack substantial evidence, contrasting the promotion by health and wellness influencers.

Friday Q&A: How to talk to teens about weight, eating, and bodies

219 implied HN points • 20 Jan 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Weight Body Image
  1. The post discusses how to talk to teens about weight, eating, and bodies, providing valuable insights for parents and caregivers.
  2. The author encourages engagement through questions and offers a 7-day free trial to access the full content and archives.
  3. Professional advice on sensitive topics like body image and health can be helpful for creating open and supportive dialogues with teenagers.

Friday Q&A: On Choosing a Doctor; Ozempic downsides; Long COVID; & Caregiver Burnout

179 implied HN points • 17 Feb 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Doctors Medication Long Covid
  1. One way to know if your doctor is good is if they engage in active listening, use medical evidence for recommendations, and refer to other clinicians when needed.
  2. When considering trying a new medication like Ozempic, it's important to be aware of potential downsides and risks, including the possibility of weight gain after stopping the medication.
  3. Caregiver burnout is a real challenge that should not be overlooked, so it's crucial to seek support and take care of your own well-being while caring for others.

Update on The Flu & Flu Vaccines

139 implied HN points • 20 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Influenza Vaccines Prevention Treatment Side Effects
  1. The flu is a respiratory illness caused by the Influenza virus, with symptoms like cough, sore throat, fever, body aches, and fatigue. It can be severe and even fatal.
  2. Getting a flu vaccine is crucial because it reduces the risk of serious flu-related complications and mortality. Even if its effectiveness varies, it plays a significant role in preventing deaths.
  3. The flu spreads person-to-person and in the air, especially in crowded, poorly ventilated indoor spaces. Effective treatments include prescription antiviral medications and rest.