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

REMINDER: Tonight's Zoom Hangout with Me!

0 implied HN points • 14 Jun 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Newsletter
  1. The post is a reminder for a Zoom hangout happening tonight for paid subscribers.
  2. The hangout is an opportunity to discuss recent newsletter topics and anything else on subscribers' minds.
  3. For dedicated subscribers, there is a recommendation to check out a short solo podcast related to health before the hangout.

Find a Middle Ground

0 implied HN points • 15 Aug 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Mental health Technology Podcasts
  1. Food and screen time, while important, can negatively impact our health if not moderated.
  2. Both food and technology are means of social connection but can contribute to emotional distress.
  3. To maintain a healthy balance, it's crucial to be intentional about what we consume, whether it's food for the body or technology for the mind.

Practice What You Preach

0 implied HN points • 01 Jul 21
🏥 Health & Wellness Wellness Mental health Self-care
  1. The author acknowledges feeling burned out and the importance of self-care, even while enjoying their work.
  2. Taking time off, re-centering thoughts, and finding meaning are crucial for maintaining mental well-being.
  3. It's essential to reflect on what matters most, find joy, peace, and calm amidst chaos, and make sustainable changes to improve daily life.
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Consider your Mental Health

0 implied HN points • 10 May 21
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. The post emphasizes the importance of considering mental health and highlights the collective trauma experienced during the pandemic
  2. The author shares practical tips for managing mental health and encourages listening to a video with insights on the topic
  3. Acknowledgment is given to a mental health center for their work in creating the video

Myth of the Day: You Must Exercise More to Lose Weight

0 implied HN points • 15 Nov 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Weight Loss Exercise Well-being Physical health Mental health
  1. Exercise alone generally does not result in weight loss; it's more about managing expectations and understanding the complex factors at play.
  2. Incorporating strength training can be crucial for weight loss as it helps build muscle mass, which is key for metabolism and fat-burning.
  3. Consider switching up your exercise routine, including trying morning workouts, and focus on finding joy and health benefits in physical activities beyond just weight loss.

Trust Science

0 implied HN points • 08 Feb 21
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Vaccination Trust Pandemic
  1. Trust the science behind COVID-19 vaccines and public health measures.
  2. Vaccination is key to returning to normalcy, and optimism based on evidence is important for motivation.
  3. Continue to follow safety guidelines, get vaccinated, and maintain hope for a healthier future.

Dream Big

0 implied HN points • 17 Jan 21
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Physical health Pandemic Vaccination Well-being
  1. Spread awareness about mental and physical health is important, and achieving wide audience impact is a collective effort.
  2. Reflecting on dreams and aspirations is crucial for growth and progress, especially during challenging times.
  3. Hope is essential, but action is needed to make real change - so let's dream big and work hard towards our goals.

Mind the Mutations

0 implied HN points • 10 Jan 21
🏥 Health & Wellness Health Updates Preventive measures Vaccination Testing
  1. Viruses naturally mutate to survive and reproduce, and the COVID-19 variants are more contagious but not more lethal.
  2. We need to strictly adhere to mask-wearing, social distancing, and other risk mitigation measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
  3. The Pfizer vaccine is effective against the current variants, and widespread vaccination and testing are essential to combat COVID-19.

Take Stock of Where we are

0 implied HN points • 04 Jan 21
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Mental health Prevention Treatment Vaccination
  1. We know more about treating severe COVID-19, including using supplemental oxygen, dexamethasone, remdesivir, and blood thinners to help hospitalized patients.
  2. For early COVID-19 at home, it's advisable to monitor symptoms, take vitamin D and zinc, rest, hydrate, and get monoclonal antibodies within the first 7-10 days after symptom onset.
  3. To prevent COVID-19, remember MOSHPIT: Masks, Outdoors, Social distancing, Handwashing, Personal responsibility, Information, and Talk to your doctor.

Spread the Word (Not the Vaccine)

0 implied HN points • 13 Dec 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health
  1. The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is safe and effective, recommended for most people.
  2. Vaccination is crucial to overcome the pandemic, but other preventive measures like masks will still be necessary.
  3. Common vaccine myths should be dispelled to encourage people to trust science and get vaccinated.

Get a Fresh Perspective

0 implied HN points • 15 Nov 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Health Mental health COVID-19 Rest Collaboration
  1. Taking time to rest and relax is essential for maintaining sanity and mental health.
  2. Collaborating and learning from others, especially in a professional setting, can provide fresh perspectives and valuable insights.
  3. Despite not accomplishing anything special, simple activities like sleeping in and lounging can rejuvenate and refresh the mind.

Exercise your Control

0 implied HN points • 05 Nov 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Self-care Emotional Health
  1. Focus on what you can control, like how much news you consume and how you react to it.
  2. Taking care of your emotional health isn't selfish; it's important for empathy and well-being.
  3. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, like buying something fun or spending time in nature.

Find Humor

0 implied HN points • 29 Oct 20
😂 Humor Satire Comedy Entertainment
  1. Finding humor is important for mental and physical health. Laughter can be healing and add depth to relationships.
  2. Appropriate and well-intended humor can help ease pain and suffering, but it can also be harmful if used in a hurtful manner.
  3. In challenging times, such as during the pandemic, seeking out laughter and surrounding oneself with positive, funny people can help with emotional well-being.

Stay Informed

0 implied HN points • 13 Aug 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Mental health COVID-19 Prevention Testing
  1. Research shows coronavirus can be transmitted through aerosols at distances beyond 6 feet, but it's still uncertain if the viral particles are enough to infect.
  2. Superspreading of the virus can happen with a small percentage of infected people who spread it to many others in settings like crowded bars and parties.
  3. Wearing masks is about science and safety, not politics, as they are proven to protect both the wearer and others from germs.

Hang In There

0 implied HN points • 10 Aug 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Parenting Wellbeing Education
  1. The school reopening situation is challenging for everyone involved, from parents and teachers to students and administrators.
  2. It's important to remember that no one is to blame for the difficulties faced during this time; the real issue is the coronavirus. Kindness and support are crucial.
  3. Kids are resilient and should remember to ask for help when needed, while adults should focus on listening and understanding in order to help them through this tough time.

Spread your Wings (Carefully)

0 implied HN points • 18 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Mental health Travel Safety measures
  1. Consider the risk/benefit ratio before flying - think about the value of the activity, the risks involved, and ways to mitigate them.
  2. If you do fly, take precautions like checking the airline's seating policy, carrying minimal items, sanitizing surfaces, washing hands frequently, wearing a mask, and selecting a window seat.
  3. Getting tested for COVID-19 upon arrival may not be helpful due to the incubation period and false negative rates of tests; consider quarantining for 14 days to protect loved ones.

Sometimes it’s Better to React with No Reaction

0 implied HN points • 15 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Medical COVID-19 Genetics Preventative Care
  1. Genetic factors, like blood type, may influence COVID-19 severity, but knowing your blood type doesn't change how you behave. It's just a piece of the larger puzzle.
  2. Seek information that can actually impact your actions, such as COVID-19 case rates or personal health data, and adjust your behavior accordingly.
  3. Human nature drives us to seek control by grasping onto knowable information, but focusing on actionable insights is key to navigating uncertainty.

Be Brave

0 implied HN points • 25 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Well-being Medical Updates Personal Growth
  1. Respect and protect each other everyday by staying home and following rules - it's about treating others well and looking beyond ourselves.
  2. In a pandemic, it's important to show forbearance and put others' health before our own - being selfless can make us stronger together.
  3. Making decisions while reopening life takes courage and guts, but we can get through it by supporting each other and being brave.

Keep on Dancing

0 implied HN points • 10 May 20
🎭️ Culture Dance
  1. The post is about sharing a zippy video on Facebook in honor of Mother's Day.
  2. The author encourages others to keep on dancing.
  3. The post includes the author's Substack link.

Know your Body and Ask for Help When Something Feels Amiss

0 implied HN points • 05 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Physical health Mental health Medical Advice Self-care COVID-19
  1. Listen to your body and seek help if something doesn't feel right. Lisa's story shows how important it is to trust your instincts about your health.
  2. Even when faced with conflicting advice, prioritize your well-being above everything else. Take action when needed.
  3. Regularly check in with your body and communicate any concerns with your doctor. Pay attention to both physical and mental changes, especially during uncertain times.

Get your Rest

0 implied HN points • 26 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Sleep Anxiety Routine Physical activity
  1. Sleep is essential for brain health and overall well-being. It is just as important as food, water, shelter, and love.
  2. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and avoiding habits like excessive daytime napping can help improve the quality of your sleep.
  3. Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake in the evenings, exercising daily, and practicing relaxation techniques, like meditation, can all contribute to better sleep during stressful times.

No is the New Yes

0 implied HN points • 20 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Wellness Advice
  1. 25% of people with coronavirus do not show symptoms, so everyone should act as if they have it and can spread it.
  2. Saying 'no' during this time shows you care about facts, others, and being responsible, even if it's hard.
  3. It's important to focus on flattening the curve to return to normal faster, even if it means sacrificing some social activities for now.

Listen to your Body

0 implied HN points • 08 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19 Anxiety Body awareness
  1. Taking care of your body is important, especially during times of stress like the pandemic.
  2. Irregular eating habits, strange sleep-wake cycles, and lack of routine can impact your body.
  3. Listening to your body's signals and needs can help you manage COVID-19 anxiety.

Fact-Check Your Thoughts

0 implied HN points • 07 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19 Anxiety Well-being
  1. COVID-19 reality check: U.S. death toll over 11,000; world leader in ICU; cities restricting outdoor activities.
  2. Get fact-based information to manage COVID-19 anxiety.
  3. Consider subscribing to 'Are You Okay?' for more informative posts and a free trial.

Stop the Spread

0 implied HN points • 31 Mar 20
🏥 Health & Wellness
  1. Viruses and bacteria are different. Bacteria is living, while viruses are not.
  2. Take steps to populate your brain with facts about coronavirus to reduce fear.
  3. Create a panic-free zone in your mind by expanding your knowledge about the spread of coronavirus.

Learn Together

0 implied HN points • 29 Mar 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Information
  1. The author plans to cover essential information about the coronavirus throughout the week in a virtual class.
  2. The author's patients and readers are seeking answers and information about the unfolding situation with the virus.
  3. The post suggests that learning together and sharing knowledge is important during this challenging time.

Settle In

0 implied HN points • 03 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The US became the center of COVID-19 with its rapid increase in sickness.
  2. Understanding how America became so sick so quickly is important.
  3. The news is moving quickly, tensions are high, but it's crucial to keep up with the information and stay informed.

Friendly reminder: Our Zoom Hangout is Tonight!

0 implied HN points • 19 Apr 23
🏥 Health & Wellness
  1. Health is not just about physical measurements but encompasses awareness, acceptance, and agency in our lives.
  2. The Four "I"s framework offers a new perspective on viewing health as a continuous process rather than a final outcome.
  3. Participating in discussions and exploring new frameworks can help individuals rethink and apply concepts of health to their own well-being.

Prep for the Holidays

0 implied HN points • 21 Nov 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Health tips Immunity Vaccines Wellness Practices Medication
  1. Vaccination against COVID is essential to protect against severe disease, even with waning immunity from the primary vaccine series.
  2. Flu shots are recommended for managing the flu virus effectively and are a good match for the circulating strains this year.
  3. Boosting the immune system with sleep, proper nutrition, exercise, and other self-care practices can help protect against various viruses.

Myth of the Day: You Must Eat Less to Weight

0 implied HN points • 08 Nov 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Weight Loss Diet Mindfulness Nutrition
  1. Eating less alone is not the key to weight loss. Understanding individual relationships with food, nourishing the body properly, and recognizing emotional and habitual eating patterns are crucial.
  2. Weight is influenced by a complex mix of genetic, hormonal, emotional, and environmental factors, not just calorie intake. It's important to consider the holistic approach to health rather than just focusing on restricting calories.
  3. Sustainability, mindfulness, and satiety play key roles in successful weight management. Instead of extreme dieting, focusing on regular, balanced meals, intuitive eating, and being in tune with hunger and fullness cues can lead to better outcomes.

Myth of the Day: BMI is the Bible

0 implied HN points • 31 Oct 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Diet Exercise Weight Loss BMI
  1. BMI is not the sole indicator of health - it's like the SAT, just one data point. Context around weight, like genetics, metabolism, and lifestyle, is crucial.
  2. Health is more than just a number on the scale - healthy habits, genetic factors, and overall lifestyle play key roles in well-being.
  3. Focus on realistic goal-setting, healthy habits, and individual health goals, rather than solely relying on BMI for health and weight management.

Tip of the Day: Give Yourself and Others Some Grace

0 implied HN points • 17 Oct 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Self-care Stress management Relationships
  1. Acknowledging the universality of struggle can lead to self-compassion and improved relationships, benefiting our health.
  2. Healing from the pandemic's psychological toll involves facing uncomfortable truths about ourselves and normalizing feelings of despair.
  3. Embracing the practice of 'holding paradox' helps in reframing mindset, setting realistic goals, and fostering empathy towards ourselves and others.

Myth of the Day: I Don’t Need a Flu Shot

0 implied HN points • 11 Oct 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Preventative Care Vaccination Health Education Disease Prevention Immunity
  1. Flu is a serious illness caused by influenza virus with symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches.
  2. Getting the flu shot is crucial every year, with effectiveness ranging from 20% to 60%, to reduce severe disease and mortality.
  3. COVID and flu are spread similarly, but different tests are needed to distinguish them; antivirals like Tamiflu help with flu treatment.