The hottest Mental health Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health & Wellness Topics
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 26 Oct 20
  1. During the holidays, it's important to balance staying safe from COVID while also taking care of our mental health.
  2. Make decisions based on understanding the facts, assessing risks, and considering the benefits.
  3. It's essential to have realistic plans for the holidays, considering individual health needs and family dynamics.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 22 Oct 20
  1. It's okay to not always be okay. Take time to address your mental and physical health.
  2. Prioritize the basics for better well-being: sleep, talk about your feelings, eat nutritiously, and move your body daily.
  3. Rest, restore, and care for yourself. Don't forget the importance of self-care and seeking help when needed.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 19 Oct 20
  1. The post shares insights on preparing for winter and the holidays, including a fresh medical perspective from Dr. Clay Ackerly.
  2. Dr. Clay Ackerly, a trusted colleague, offers valuable advice based on his training and experience in internal medicine.
  3. The article emphasizes the importance of planning ahead for the coming months and finding support during challenging times.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 15 Oct 20
  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
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 12 Oct 20
  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.
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Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 08 Oct 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 05 Oct 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 01 Oct 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 24 Sep 20
  1. It's important to follow the facts, even if it feels challenging. The battle against COVID is tough, but we're becoming stronger by staying informed.
  2. COVID-19 protocols are crucial to follow: isolate if sick and monitor symptoms closely. Testing, quarantining, and seeking medical advice are key steps.
  3. Being cautious with COVID-19 is necessary: follow symptom guidelines, understand quarantine protocols, and be aware of potential false positives and transmission risks.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 21 Sep 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 17 Sep 20
  1. Stay vigilant and continue following safety guidelines for COVID-19, even if it's challenging.
  2. Despite the abundance of information on COVID-19, there's a need to uphold personal responsibility and not let down our guard.
  3. Adopt healthy practices like wearing masks, social distancing, handwashing, and spending time outdoors to stay safe while waiting for scientific advancements.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 14 Sep 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 10 Sep 20
  1. Jaw pain can often be mistaken for ear infections; stress and jaw clenching may be the root cause.
  2. To alleviate jaw tension, consider using heat, medication, a nightguard, and jaw relaxation exercises.
  3. Incorporating breaks, limiting caffeine intake, and finding ways to mentally unwind can help manage stress and reduce muscle tension.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 03 Sep 20
  1. Be aware of how stress and anxiety impact your body, and locate where you feel it.
  2. Connect how your lifestyle choices, like news consumption or alcohol intake, affect your physical well-being.
  3. Develop and strengthen coping mechanisms to navigate stress, including trying new activities and seeking support from a healthcare professional.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 31 Aug 20
  1. Young people, especially teenagers and college-aged students, are facing increased struggles with mental health during the pandemic.
  2. Acknowledging the struggle and seeking help is important for maintaining mental well-being.
  3. Having a structured plan, including addressing basics like sleep, diet, exercise, processing emotions, and seeking professional support, is essential for coping with mental health challenges.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 27 Aug 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 20 Aug 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 13 Aug 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 10 Aug 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 06 Aug 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 03 Aug 20
  1. Many people are experiencing pandemic fatigue due to the ongoing uncertainty and lack of clear endpoint.
  2. It's important to prioritize both mental and physical health by checking in with a doctor for a tune-up.
  3. Hopeful signs for the future include increasing mask usage, ongoing vaccine development, and improving therapeutics for COVID-19.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 31 Jul 20
  1. It's okay to not be okay - it's normal to feel bad sometimes.
  2. Accepting reality is healthier than fighting it - acknowledge your feelings instead of denying them.
  3. Feeling distressed or anxious at times is expected, especially during challenging situations like a global pandemic.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 24 Jul 20
  1. Radical acceptance involves facing uncomfortable feelings and acknowledging unpleasant realities, no matter how painful or hard.
  2. To practice radical acceptance, it's important to acknowledge emotions, use tools to tolerate the present moment, and understand what can and cannot be controlled in life.
  3. Radical acceptance is not about agreeing with a painful reality, giving up, or judging situations; it's about embracing and dealing with difficult truths in a healthy manner.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 16 Jul 20
  1. Three main ways to combat COVID-19: through therapeutics, vaccines, and herd immunity.
  2. Herd immunity requires durable and robust antibody responses from infected or vaccinated individuals.
  3. Consider batching medical news to avoid overwhelming yourself and use trusted sources as filters.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 13 Jul 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 08 Jul 20
  1. Kids need structure, routine, and safe spaces to regulate emotions.
  2. It's important for parents to find a balance between protecting and giving freedom to their children.
  3. Asking for help is a sign of strength, especially when dealing with mental health challenges.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 03 Jul 20
  1. Accept that there are things beyond our control, such as other people's beliefs and behaviors.
  2. Focus on regulating emotions and responses, creating routines, and taking care of oneself during tough times.
  3. Recognize that everyone is going through challenges during the pandemic, and acknowledge the need for introspection, learning, and honest communication.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 01 Jul 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 29 Jun 20
  1. Continue practicing calm vigilance to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, since the virus is still prevalent and highly contagious.
  2. Make thoughtful decisions about activities to balance enjoying life and minimizing risks, especially around vulnerable individuals.
  3. Reflect on what truly matters to you and find gratitude in simple pleasures, as it can positively impact your mental health and decision-making.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 23 Jun 20
  1. Dr. Clay Ackerly discussed COVID-19 news and decisions in phase 2.
  2. Lucy McBride plans to resume her day job.
  3. Join Lucy McBride and Michelle Palmer on Facebook Live to talk about managing mental and physical health during the pandemic.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 22 Jun 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 19 Jun 20
  1. Commit to following safety guidelines like wearing masks and social distancing to protect yourself and loved ones.
  2. Allow yourself to have fun by hosting small gatherings outdoors with precautions like keeping a distance and using hand sanitizer.
  3. Take care of yourself during this challenging time by pacing yourself, prioritizing your needs, and getting enough rest.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 18 Jun 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 17 Jun 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 16 Jun 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 15 Jun 20
  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.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 14 Jun 20
  1. The writer broke their promise not to post on weekends because they enjoy engaging with their audience and have a compulsive nature.
  2. The writer recommends a fun Sunday ritual of sitting in a lawn chair in the front yard, which they find to be like a surprise party each time.
  3. The writer is interested in hearing from their audience about topics they would like to read about, with suggestions ranging from COVID-19 updates to parenting advice.
Are You Okay? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 11 Jun 20
  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.