The hottest Mental health Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health & Wellness Topics
Are You Okay? 519 implied HN points 02 Feb 24
  1. Limit exposure to microplastics by using stainless steel or glass instead of plastic products like water bottles and food containers.
  2. Infrared saunas may not be effective for energy and weight loss as some claim, according to a medical professional.
  3. Research on the potential health impacts of microplastics and the mechanisms for toxicity is ongoing; more studies are needed.
Singal-Minded 465 implied HN points 22 Jul 25
  1. Sex addiction isn't clearly defined and can sometimes excuse bad behavior. It's important to consider personal responsibility instead of labeling someone as a sex addict.
  2. The conversation around sexual behavior should be more complex, looking at emotional and psychological factors, rather than simplifying it to an addiction.
  3. There is a lot of confusion online about sex and porn addiction, and not every issue comes from a place of addiction. It's key to differentiate between normal behaviors and harmful actions.
Mind Mine 1002 implied HN points 20 Mar 23
  1. Receiving openly enhances your ability to give more freely.
  2. Allowing yourself to receive gracefully invites more generosity into your life.
  3. Receiving gifts is not about proving your worth, but about expressing love and gratitude.
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Mind Mud 825 implied HN points 15 Nov 23
  1. Standing on your own two feet can be more terrifying than expected, but taking responsibility breeds self-respect.
  2. Find answers about life and aspirations in religion like many others do.
  3. Value intimacy over attention, be yourself, and connect with those who share your interests.
The Frontier Psychiatrists 471 implied HN points 10 Feb 24
  1. The author shares a heartbreaking story of his sister's struggles with addiction and mental health issues, leading to her tragic death.
  2. The importance of family support and forgiveness during difficult times is highlighted in the narrative.
  3. The impact of childhood trauma, like being given up for adoption, on a person's life and mental health is explored through the author's personal reflection.
Castalia 779 implied HN points 24 Nov 23
  1. Many veterans face difficult lives filled with trauma, and often struggle to adjust to life after service. Places like Ft. Endurance provide support, but the road to recovery can be very tough.
  2. Scott's journey illustrates the deep emotional and physical pain veterans can endure, alongside their desire for connection and healing. Even small acts, like talking to a horse, can bring a sense of peace.
  3. Mental health struggles are real and ongoing for many veterans, and support from friends and family is crucial. It's important to check in on loved ones and encourage them to seek help.
Welcome to Absurdistan 982 implied HN points 01 Jun 23
  1. The article discusses how societal movements like 'Fat Positivity' and 'Insulin Resistance' are impacting kids' health negatively.
  2. It criticizes the obsession with body image and the pressure to conform, which can lead to emotional issues and overeating.
  3. There is a focus on the health risks associated with obesity, especially in children, and the need to prioritize physical health over body positivity movements.
Am I Doing This Right? 982 implied HN points 08 Jun 23
  1. The author is feeling emotionally up and down due to personal reasons.
  2. The author is working on a picture book with lots of art, making them tired of creating art by the end of the day.
  3. The author plans to adopt a more relaxed mindset about their newsletter content and focus on enjoying the creative process.
The Analog Family 339 implied HN points 21 Mar 24
  1. Keeping a paper workout journal can help you track your fitness progress over time. Writing down workouts lets you see how you've improved in a more personal way than just using an app.
  2. Using a physical notebook allows for more detailed notes, like how you felt during a workout, which can be helpful for future training sessions.
  3. Writing on paper helps maintain focus and reduce distractions from phones during workouts. The act of using a journal can make the experience feel more real and meaningful.
Rob Henderson's Newsletter 1344 implied HN points 14 Jan 25
  1. Anxiety is more common in wealthy countries, particularly among educated people with white-collar jobs. It seems to be a problem that affects many people today.
  2. Clinical depression rates have reached a new high, especially among young adults and college students. Understanding depression can be important since it greatly affects people's lives.
  3. Both anxiety and depression have seen significant increases over the past decade. It's crucial to discuss and learn more about these issues to find better ways to cope.
Spilled Coffee 44 implied HN points 21 Jan 26
  1. Bad days stack and make small things feel huge, but they pass — the smart move is to survive the day without doing something you'll regret.
  2. Keeping perspective by noticing the basics you can be grateful for — healthy family, a warm home, steady work — puts setbacks in their place.
  3. Real progress comes from boring, disciplined days; you don't need every day to be great, you just need to keep showing up.
Are You Okay? 619 implied HN points 29 Dec 23
  1. Engaging in weight-bearing exercises like yoga can improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, along with a calcium-rich diet and vitamin D supplements.
  2. For older adults, incorporating simple weight-bearing exercises into routines, like wearing a weighted vest while walking, can significantly enhance muscle strength and overall health.
  3. Decisions on medications for osteoporosis should be personalized, considering the effectiveness of lifestyle changes and the potential benefits of prescriptions like Fosamax, which may be complemented by habits like yoga.
Knowingless 1121 implied HN points 19 Feb 25
  1. Needle phobia can be very serious and isn't always taken seriously by others. This fear can lead to panic attacks and avoidance of medical care.
  2. Exposure therapy often doesn't help with severe needle phobia. Finding alternatives like distraction or numbing methods can be more effective for managing panic.
  3. Techniques like ice packs and specialized devices can significantly reduce the pain associated with needles. Experimenting with different methods can lead to better results and less anxiety.
Disaffected Newsletter 1518 implied HN points 14 Jun 23
  1. You have the power to choose to quit drinking and make positive changes in your life. It doesn't matter how you do it, as long as it's a choice that helps you.
  2. Stopping drinking can reveal a lot of painful truths about your life and choices, but facing those realities is necessary for growth. It's hard at first, but it can lead to a healthier perspective.
  3. Believe in your strength and ability to change. Don't underestimate yourself; your willpower is stronger than you think.
The Dose 943 implied HN points 13 Jun 23
  1. Our minds shape our reality based on our expectations and beliefs.
  2. Expectations influence behavior and even physiology.
  3. Anticipatory coping strategies can help manage stress and mental health by focusing on problem analysis and plan rehearsal.
Disaffected Newsletter 1318 implied HN points 15 Jul 23
  1. Borderline Personality Disorder can lead to emotional instability and unpredictable behavior, affecting those around them. It's important to understand that this behavior is not the fault of others.
  2. Experiencing emotional or psychological abuse manifests in guilt and confusion, often leading to questions about one's actions. People involved can feel responsible for the abuser's pain, which is a common manipulation tactic.
  3. Societal norms have changed, and behaviors once considered unacceptable in private are now more visible and often seen as normal. It's vital to recognize these signs of abuse in both personal relationships and broader social contexts.
Are You Okay? 499 implied HN points 26 Jan 24
  1. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a real and potentially debilitating condition that affects many women. Managing it can involve tracking symptoms, regular exercise, a nutritious diet, adequate sleep, hormonal treatments, SSRIs, psychotherapy, and stress reduction techniques.
  2. When considering tapering off antidepressants, it's important to discuss this process with a healthcare provider. Psychotherapy can be a valuable tool for retraining the brain during this transition.
  3. Individualized treatment plans are crucial for addressing specific symptoms and needs when managing hormonal mood swings, tapering antidepressants, or dealing with other health concerns. Working closely with a doctor can help in developing a suitable plan.
Disaffected Newsletter 1678 implied HN points 11 May 23
  1. Talking about bad experiences is easier than sharing happy memories. It's hard to explain feelings when love seems inconsistent.
  2. As time passes, there’s a heavy realization about lost opportunities in life, like not having a family of their own.
  3. Love can be difficult to express when it feels like there's no right place for it to go, leading to feelings of sadness and frustration.
QUALITY BOSS 59 implied HN points 23 Jul 24
  1. Focusing on your core values rather than roles can help you bounce back from tough times. When your identity is built around values like connection and integrity, you're more adaptable to change.
  2. People who tie their identity to their job or relationship might struggle more during transitions. If you see yourself as defined by your values, losing a job or going through a divorce feels less drastic.
  3. Building daily habits that reflect your values can strengthen your sense of self. For example, if curiosity is important to you, spending time learning new things helps keep you engaged and authentic.
City Quitters 519 implied HN points 19 Jan 24
  1. Our culture often pushes us to constantly achieve and compete, but this can lead to burnout and unhappiness. It's okay to not always strive to be the best.
  2. Instead of focusing on individual success and status, we should value relationships and collaboration. A shift towards caring for each other can be more fulfilling.
  3. Giving up the pressure of achievement can be freeing. Embracing who we are, with all our flaws and feelings, can lead to a more authentic and enjoyable life.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 97 implied HN points 08 Dec 25
  1. Abigail Shrier’s "Tough Love" advice column answers readers’ personal questions, and this installment will address a man named Greg who’s deciding if his marriage is worth working on.
  2. The piece is published by The Free Press and includes an AI‑narrated audio version produced by ElevenLabs.
  3. The full article is behind a paywall and requires signing in or subscribing, with subscription options shown (annual $100 or $10/month).
Of Boys and Men 103 implied HN points 10 Dec 25
  1. Digital technology isn’t all doom; it can expand agency and connection if we design, use, and regulate it with intention. We need balanced, evidence-based research instead of moral panic or a libertarian shrug.
  2. Young men aren’t being mass-radicalized online; many are retreating into digital spaces and their political views haven’t shifted dramatically. That retreat matters because it links to harms like loneliness and rising suicide, so policies should meet them where they are.
  3. There are real gendered risks from sports betting, addictive platforms, pornography, gaming, and AI companions, and boys and men can be especially vulnerable. We need better guardrails, stronger evidence, and more real-world opportunities for play, connection, and safety.
Egg Report 923 implied HN points 04 Apr 23
  1. Walking with a limp can impact your whole body's stress and posture.
  2. Choosing to focus on the pain can lead to more deformities and issues.
  3. Resisting the urge to seek immediate relief can lead to better healing outcomes.
Weight and Healthcare 918 implied HN points 05 Jul 23
  1. The column discusses weight stigma and hypocrisy in healthcare, pointing out discrimination based on body size.
  2. It highlights the importance of respecting boundaries and being cautious with compliments related to body size manipulation.
  3. The response from the Ethicist regarding concerns about weight loss drugs brings to light inconsistencies and potential ethical issues.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1321 implied HN points 30 Dec 24
  1. Life is about more than just chasing a high salary or getting into a prestigious college. People need to enjoy their lives and find happiness in other ways.
  2. Overly strict parenting, like the 'Tiger Mom' approach, can lead to anxiety and depression in children. It's important to let kids have fun and make friends instead of just focusing on grades and achievements.
  3. A society that values creativity and risk-taking is important. Not everyone needs to be competitive; we need people doing everyday jobs too, like fixing cars or caring for others.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1061 implied HN points 16 Feb 25
  1. Many women feel a strong need to be understood and validated, especially when experiencing health issues. This desire makes them more likely to follow wellness trends that promise relief.
  2. The story of Belle Gibson shows the dangers of wellness influencers who exploit the struggles of others for gain. Her narrative reflects a broader issue where people's real pain is often dismissed.
  3. Skepticism from medical professionals about women's health issues can lead to feelings of desperation. This can push women towards unproven wellness solutions in hopes of finding someone who believes and helps them.
The Microdose 432 implied HN points 09 Feb 24
  1. Law enforcement seizures of psychedelic mushrooms have significantly increased over the years, indicating a potential rise in availability and use.
  2. Research suggests that psychedelics like psilocybin can lead to improvements in sexual functioning and satisfaction.
  3. California is considering launching a state-regulated program for therapeutic use of psychedelics, potentially making it the first to focus explicitly on psychedelic therapy.
Disaffected Newsletter 959 implied HN points 12 Sep 23
  1. It's hard to please everyone, especially when it comes to people's opinions about men. You can't change people's views, no matter how hard you try.
  2. Chasing the idea of being seen as a 'good man' can lead to frustration. It's like trying to roll a boulder uphill with no end in sight.
  3. Instead of trying to meet unrealistic expectations, focus on being true to yourself and your values. That's more important than seeking approval from others.
The Recovering Academic 554 implied HN points 02 Jan 24
  1. Fitness culture has evolved over the years, moving away from toxic masculinity and dominance-oriented training to a more inclusive and positive approach.
  2. Exercise can be a way to compensate for emotional distress and voids, but it's important to shift towards a healthier mindset focused on overall well-being.
  3. The shift in workout environments, from segregated spaces to inclusive settings, reflects a desire for a more positive and supportive fitness community that values happiness and holistic wellness.
The Next Brand 530 implied HN points 08 Jan 24
  1. When setting goals, focus on things you really want and are ready for.
  2. Fasting has numerous health benefits and is worth trying, even for a day.
  3. Startup founders may now benefit more from raising less money and focusing on profitability.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1187 implied HN points 14 Jan 25
  1. The West is facing issues like low marriage and birth rates, more depression and loneliness, and a general sense of unhappiness. Many believe this might be linked to a decline in traditional religion.
  2. FDR's four fundamental freedoms, including freedom of worship, are currently challenged by new societal problems like technology and economic inequality.
  3. A debate is happening about whether a return to religion could help with the current crisis of meaning, highlighting differing views on modern secularism versus traditional belief systems.
Are You Okay? 878 implied HN points 24 Jul 23
  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.