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

Keep On Keeping On

0 implied HN points • 11 Nov 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health COVID-19 Wellness Prevention Resilience
  1. COVID cases are surging, with indoor venues contributing to 80% of new cases - being outdoors is safer.
  2. We're better equipped to handle COVID now than in the spring - masks, distancing, and hand-washing work.
  3. Resilience and optimism are crucial - focusing on coping tools, mental health, and the promise of vaccines can help us navigate winter.

Boost your Mood

0 implied HN points • 02 Nov 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Physical activity Self-care Therapy Social connection
  1. Physical activity boosts mood by increasing serotonin, dopamine, and lowering stress hormones. Plan daily exercise to prioritize mental health.
  2. Taking mental breaks from screens and technology is crucial for reducing stress, fostering creativity, and enhancing mood.
  3. Consider purchasing a light box to mimic outdoor light, which may help alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Reach out to a therapist if you need added support.

Don’t Dismiss Testing

0 implied HN points • 15 Oct 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Testing COVID-19 Medical Mental health
  1. Different COVID-19 tests have unique advantages and disadvantages - PCR is more sensitive but can detect 'dead' virus, while rapid antigen tests are quicker and sensitive for infectious amounts
  2. Timing matters for testing - a negative test during the virus's incubation period may not be accurate as the virus needs time to replicate for a positive result
  3. PCR tests can detect the virus even before a person becomes contagious, but can remain positive long after the contagious period ends

The Stock of Where we Are

0 implied HN points • 12 Oct 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Medical Updates Wellness Tips
  1. Vaccines from Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson show promise in preventing COVID-19. FDA won't release a vaccine until it's safe.
  2. Consider taking Vitamin D and zinc supplements in moderation to potentially help prevent COVID-19.
  3. Masks remain crucial to preventing COVID-19 transmission, along with social distancing and hand hygiene.

Forgive Yourself, You’re Human

0 implied HN points • 08 Oct 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Physical health Self-compassion Stress management Healthy Habits
  1. Self-compassion is crucial for dealing with stress and setbacks. Instead of being hard on yourself, focus on trying again and setting achievable goals.
  2. Acknowledge that these times are challenging and it's okay to struggle. You're not alone in feeling the stress and uncertainty.
  3. Take small steps towards improving your mental and physical health. Try new activities for joy, be patient with yourself, and know that investing in your well-being now is important for the future.
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Keep Your Eye on the Truth

0 implied HN points • 05 Oct 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health COVID-19 Preventative measures Transparency Anxiety
  1. Being outdoors is not a guarantee of protection from coronavirus; maintain social distancing and wear masks even outside.
  2. A negative COVID test does not mean you are safe; continue following preventive measures like wearing masks, distancing, and hand-washing.
  3. Creating a safe pod requires strict adherence to quarantine, risk mitigation rules, and avoiding contact with other people.

Get Outside

0 implied HN points • 01 Oct 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Physical health Outdoor activities Exercise
  1. Bundle up and get outside to enjoy cold weather activities like hiking, ice-skating, and fort-building for mental and physical health.
  2. Invest in outdoor heaters or fire pits to socialize safely while maintaining a six-feet distance from others.
  3. Staying active and planning fun outdoor activities can combat stress and emotional tolls of winter, reducing the need for indoor gatherings.

Test your Patience (and your Knowledge on Covid Testing)

0 implied HN points • 28 Sep 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19 Testing Medical Advice
  1. Differentiating between COVID testing types is crucial: PCR tests are more accurate, but rapid tests can give quicker results (though less accurate).
  2. Quarantine is important even with a negative test result after exposure to COVID, as symptoms can show up later.
  3. Widespread testing, especially with cheaper and quicker at-home options, could greatly help in controlling the pandemic.

Remember that Change is Possible

0 implied HN points • 21 Sep 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Physical health Self-care Anxiety Self-Improvement
  1. Remember that change is possible, and it happens one step at a time like Ruth Bader Ginsburg inspired.
  2. Control is in your hands in managing the pandemic by wearing masks, practicing social distancing, handwashing, and self-care.
  3. Facing vulnerability and fear is normal, but don't give them a home; focus on achievable goals and self-care for emotional and physical well-being.

Be Nice to Yourself

0 implied HN points • 14 Sep 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Stress management Emotional Intelligence Self-compassion
  1. Under stress, our thought patterns can become distorted, leading to black-and-white thinking, catastrophizing, filtering, blaming, and projection.
  2. To combat distorted thinking, it's important to admit vulnerability to anxious thoughts, fact-check those thoughts, and practice self-compassion.
  3. In times of stress, be kind to yourself and understand that gnarly thoughts are common - welcome these emotions as part of the human experience.

Exhale (Into your Mask)

0 implied HN points • 27 Aug 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Medical COVID-19 Treatment
  1. Ongoing vigilance is critical to combatting COVID-19, even for those who follow safety precautions like wearing masks and social distancing.
  2. Widespread testing of asymptomatic individuals is essential to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
  3. Personal stories of COVID-19 patients highlight the human impact behind statistics, emphasizing the importance of following safety measures and fostering hope.

Get your Flu Shot

0 implied HN points • 24 Aug 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Vaccination Infections Prevention Treatment
  1. Flu season in the U.S. generally starts in October and can last till early spring, with a peak in December.
  2. The effectiveness of the flu vaccine varies from 20-60%, but even with lower effectiveness, it can still significantly reduce morbidity and mortality.
  3. Getting a flu shot this year is especially critical to prevent overwhelming the healthcare system and helping to manage both flu and COVID-19.

Save Face

0 implied HN points • 20 Aug 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Mental health Prevention Protection
  1. Wearing a mask is one of the simplest and most effective ways to curb the spread of coronavirus and save lives.
  2. When it comes to masks, wear the best one you have and make sure it fits well to protect others.
  3. Face shields are not a replacement for masks but can offer an extra layer of protection in high-risk situations.

Take Control

0 implied HN points • 06 Aug 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Health Mental health Preventive measures Stress management
  1. We know how to prevent the spread of coronavirus by wearing masks, distancing, and practicing good hygiene.
  2. It's important to control our behavior to mitigate the risk of COVID-19, even if it's wearing masks, avoiding crowded spaces, or practicing good hand hygiene.
  3. Visiting a doctor to discuss reducing COVID-19 risk, managing stress, staying informed about updates, scheduling screenings, and setting health goals is crucial for overall well-being and prevention.

Follow the Evidence

0 implied HN points • 29 Jul 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Myths Scientific research Patient Care
  1. Medical decisions should be based on science, clinical judgment, and the patient's unique situation.
  2. It's important to avoid making assumptions, relying on anecdotal evidence, or following trends when it comes to patient care.
  3. Physicians strive to make informed decisions by continually learning from patients, colleagues, research, and their own experiences.

Push For Better Testing

0 implied HN points • 27 Jul 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Covid-19 testing Stress management Antibody testing Public Health
  1. Appropriate testing is vital for managing COVID-19 effectively, and it's crucial to know which test to get in different situations, like feeling sick or having potential exposure.
  2. Regular and widespread testing, especially with cheap, self-administered rapid tests, is key to controlling the spread of the virus, even in asymptomatic carriers.
  3. Quick and frequent testing can help identify individuals who are contagious, allowing for immediate isolation and prevention of further transmission, but the approval and scaling up of these tests is crucial.

Let’s Rethink Testing

0 implied HN points • 20 Jul 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Medical Advice
  1. The turnaround time for COVID test results can be delayed, leading to potential spread of the virus unknowingly.
  2. Frequent testing with real-time results can help in identifying the timing of infection and better containing the virus.
  3. Challenges like shortage of testing supplies, labs processing delays, and asymptomatic spread make controlling the virus difficult without regular testing.

Keep it Real

0 implied HN points • 13 Jul 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health COVID-19 Physical health Well-being
  1. Acknowledging and dealing with the negative emotions brought about by the current situation is important for mental well-being.
  2. The increase in COVID-19 cases is not just due to increased testing, but also a result of behaviors like reopening and lack of precautions.
  3. While death rates are not rising significantly, it's crucial to continue taking precautions and supporting medical advancements in treating the virus.

Replace Fear with Facts

0 implied HN points • 10 Jul 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Health Information
  1. Consider reducing media intake and taking breaks from screens to manage anxiety.
  2. Be cautious of assuming a negative test means no COVID, as there can be false negatives.
  3. Quarantine guidelines for COVID-exposed individuals and their contacts can vary based on different scenarios.

Hope for Better Days Ahead

0 implied HN points • 01 Jul 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Health Mental health Telemedicine Healthcare Pandemic
  1. Coronavirus is mutating and continuing to be a threat, regardless of people's exhaustion and desire for normalcy.
  2. Telemedicine offers hope for increased healthcare access and connectivity, serving as a valuable tool in the future of medicine.
  3. The Better Life Lab aims to help all people thrive with fulfilling work, care, and connection across their lives, advocating for a more balanced and fulfilling existence.

Practice Flexible Vigilance

0 implied HN points • 22 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Medical Updates COVID-19 Self-care
  1. Practice flexible vigilance as we navigate through the phases of reopening and make decisions regarding activities.
  2. In Phase 2, we have more choices to make, which can lead to a different kind of anxiety than what we experienced during lockdown.
  3. As we re-engage in public activities, it's important to maintain flexible vigilance by assessing risks, making informed decisions, and taking precautions to protect ourselves and others from the virus.

Keep Hope Alive

0 implied HN points • 17 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health COVID-19 Immune Response Treatment
  1. Steroids, like Dexamethasone, are showing promise in treating the sickest COVID-19 patients by reducing deaths, hinting at a new treatment option in the fight against the virus.
  2. COVID-19 can trigger dangerous cytokine storms in some patients, highlighting the importance of understanding the body's immune response to the virus.
  3. While there's no need to panic or stock up on steroids like Dexamethasone, the discovery offers hope and showcases science's ongoing efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hit the Road

0 implied HN points • 16 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Hygiene Travel COVID-19 Safety
  1. Know where you are going and consider the COVID-19 situation in that area to plan your road trip accordingly.
  2. Prepare by mapping out your travel route, filling up your gas tank before departure, and packing snacks for the journey.
  3. Be cautious during overnight stays in hotels, bring cleaning supplies, wash glassware before using, and opt for stairs over elevators when possible.

Find your Calling

0 implied HN points • 13 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical education Insurance Reform
  1. Representation matters in medicine - textbooks need to reflect the diversity of patients to improve healthcare outcomes.
  2. Physicians should address and confront their biases to provide better care for all patients.
  3. Access to healthcare should be equal for everyone, regardless of race, job status, or socioeconomic status.

Be Honest with Yourself

0 implied HN points • 11 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Substance Use Medical Advice
  1. Pay attention to your feelings and how they influence your relationship with alcohol; are you using it for comfort or escapism?
  2. Evaluate your alcohol consumption patterns and be open with your doctor about it; honesty is key for receiving appropriate help and support.
  3. Consider seeking resources like therapy, support groups, or structured programs if you need assistance with managing your relationship with alcohol.

Maintain Hope

0 implied HN points • 10 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Depression Treatment Symptoms Prevention
  1. Depression can be situational or major, affecting people differently, but it's important to recognize and seek appropriate treatment.
  2. Treatment for depression may involve medication, therapy, or a combination based on individual circumstances and severity of symptoms.
  3. It's vital to maintain hope, reach out for help, connect with others, set realistic goals, and engage in self-care activities during the recovery process.

Acknowledge your Feelings

0 implied HN points • 05 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Acknowledging pain and suffering is normal and makes us human.
  2. Addressing difficult feelings is essential for our mental and physical well-being.
  3. Facing uncomfortable feelings, such as grief and sadness, together is healthy and necessary for moving forward.

Boost your Immunity

0 implied HN points • 04 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Immunity Inflammation Vitamins General Health
  1. Boost your adaptive immune system with a vaccine or by developing neutralizing antibodies after being sick with COVID-19.
  2. Enhance your innate immune system by focusing on your general health through proper sleep, exercise, healthy eating, and stress management.
  3. Taking care of your basic health needs not only helps you fight diseases like COVID-19, but also improves overall health and well-being.

Keep Hope Alive

0 implied HN points • 01 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Updates Innovations Testing
  1. Kids tend to have very mild cases of COVID-19, though they can still be infected and carry the virus.
  2. The medication Remdesivir shows promise in treating hospitalized COVID-19 patients and reducing recovery time.
  3. Convalescent plasma and vaccine trials continue to provide hope in the fight against coronavirus.

Stand Up

0 implied HN points • 31 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health COVID-19 Self-awareness Social justice Therapy
  1. DC Mayor Bowser's lifting of the stay-at-home order doesn't mean freedom from the pandemic; the risks of COVID-19 remain significant and unchanged.
  2. White privilege should be acknowledged and used to actively support racial justice by voting, talking, and listening to others' experiences.
  3. Self-awareness involves facing uncomfortable truths, recognizing blind spots, and constantly learning to grow and better understand oneself and others.

Take Action

0 implied HN points • 30 May 20
🏥 Health Politics
  1. Reflect on current events and take action against racial injustices.
  2. Encourage open conversations about racism with family and friends.
  3. Acknowledge the impact of COVID-19 on people of color and seek to understand and address the disparities.

Spread Facts not Virus

0 implied HN points • 27 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Mental health Prevention Behavior COVID-19
  1. Key to managing COVID-19 includes wearing masks, being outside when possible, distancing socially, prioritizing handwashing, taking personal responsibility, seeking accurate information, and consulting with doctors.
  2. Super spreaders are individuals who unknowingly transmit the virus to many others, often in dense indoor settings like parties, networking events, and religious gatherings.
  3. While reopening is crucial for mental health, it's important to continue following preventive measures like the MOSH PIT guidelines to reduce the risks until a vaccine is available.

Keep Cool

0 implied HN points • 22 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Updates
  1. Approximately 30% of patients coming into the ER have COVID-related concerns, with common symptoms being fever, cough, and fatigue.
  2. It is important to follow guidelines like wearing masks and social distancing to prevent the disease burden from increasing.
  3. Patients should not delay necessary care, as emergency departments have safety measures in place to care for both COVID and non-COVID patients.

Keep Reading

0 implied HN points • 20 May 20
🚌 Education Teaching Learning Parenting Health
  1. Teachers are more than just daily lesson providers; they are connectors, thinkers, and educators of life.
  2. Virtual teaching and homeschooling have been challenging for educators, revealing areas where they may not be experts.
  3. Amidst uncertain times, being a different kind of 'doctor' has taken on new meaning - focusing on family, everyday tasks, and gratitude.

Assess your Risk

0 implied HN points • 19 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Risk Assessment Preventive measures
  1. Assess both individual and societal risks when making decisions, particularly in a pandemic.
  2. Understand the facts about COVID-19 such as handwashing, social distancing, and mask-wearing to make informed decisions.
  3. Apply the facts to your situation, weigh the risks against benefits, mitigate risks, then decide what actions to take - whether it's about wearing masks outside, seeing family over holidays, or sending kids to summer camp.