The hottest Mental health Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health & Wellness Topics

Maintain Hope

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 10 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  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.

Listen to your Brain

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 09 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Anxiety is a natural response to threats like COVID-19, but excessive worry and physical symptoms can indicate an anxiety disorder.
  2. Anxiety disorders can have a significant impact on physical health, contributing to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive dysfunction.
  3. Treatment for anxiety disorders often involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes tailored to the individual's needs and health.

Mental Health Matters

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 08 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Improving mental health can positively impact medical outcomes, with all organ systems interconnected and influenced by our mental well-being.
  2. Addressing mental health is a moral obligation due to the vast suffering caused by undiagnosed and untreated mental illness.
  3. Acknowledging and seeking help for mental health struggles can lead to self-awareness, self-compassion, and improved coping tools.

Find your Song

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 07 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Find a song that helps you process and express your emotions in times of need.
  2. Music can be a powerful tool for healing and dealing with loss.
  3. Allow yourself to feel your emotions fully, it's good for your mental health.

Lend a Helping Hand

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 06 Jun 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the existing health inequalities for people of color, making it harder for them as they face job loss, housing issues, and struggles with technology for distance learning.
  2. In Washington, DC, disparities in health outcomes exist despite high rates of health insurance, with significant gaps in life expectancy between predominantly white neighborhoods and predominantly African American neighborhoods.
  3. Community of Hope, a DC non-profit, has been innovative in adapting to the pandemic, using telehealth to continue providing services and aiming to improve health outcomes and eliminate inequities in under-resourced communities.
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Acknowledge your Feelings

Are You Okay? • 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.

Stand Up

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 31 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  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.

Go Back to Basics

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 28 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Consider the risks and benefits of activities like visiting salons during the pandemic.
  2. Prioritize your general health by focusing on basics like sleep, managing stress, eating well, and staying active.
  3. It's important to talk about your feelings and mental health, especially during challenging times like a global pandemic.

Spread Facts not Virus

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 27 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  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.

Mitigate Risk

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 26 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. The risk of getting COVID-19 will never be zero until a vaccine is available, so focus on mitigating risks by wearing masks, social distancing, being outside, handwashing, and taking personal and public responsibility.
  2. Grief is a natural response to loss and understanding the stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance, finding meaning) can help navigate the process and find healing.
  3. Change is inevitable, and while the current reality may be challenging, hope remains as people adapt to new norms, follow safety guidelines, and show kindness to one another.

Take it Easy

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 24 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. The author provides broad guidance on physical and mental health during the pandemic, focusing on easing stress and offering general advice.
  2. Specific medical questions and seeking advice should be directed to personal physicians, as the author's guidance is not a replacement for individual medical care.
  3. The readers highly value information on reopening, making tough decisions, and assessing personal risks in relation to COVID-19.

Savor the Simple

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 23 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. The author encourages interaction with readers and patients to improve their content.
  2. Readers are invited to share their thoughts, concerns, and questions to tailor future updates.
  3. Simple pleasures, like spending time with loved ones and enjoying creativity, are important for wellbeing.

Allow for Grief

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 21 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Grief is important to acknowledge, whether it's from major losses like the pandemic or smaller losses like missed events or daily routines.
  2. Understanding the stages of grief like denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance, and finding meaning can help navigate the healing process.
  3. It's okay to mourn the past, but embrace change; look for silver linings, find hope in new beginnings, and be patient for a future that will bring a different 'normal.'

Be a Helper

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 16 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. During the pandemic, people are exchanging friendly greetings more than ever before, even with just their eyes.
  2. True kindness is helping others without seeking praise or recognition.
  3. Small acts of kindness, even when done in secret, have a powerful impact on our mental health.

Connect in New Ways with your Neighbors

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 15 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Widespread and coordinated contact tracing is vital for preventing community spread of COVID-19, as it helps contain the virus and stop potential outbreaks.
  2. Individuals can now readily self-refer for COVID testing without a doctor's order, but the interpretation of test results requires clinical context for proper decision-making and care.
  3. Volunteering as a contact tracer is an essential way to contribute to the system that helps contain the virus and save lives during the pandemic.

Make the Most of What We’ve Got and Stay Hopeful for What’s to Come

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 14 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. COVID testing, while not perfect, is still essential for moving forward and interpreting results requires clinical judgment.
  2. The accuracy of COVID tests can vary between different types and brands, so it's important to understand their limitations and context.
  3. Positive antibody tests suggest immunity, but it's not a guarantee of total protection from the virus. Clinical judgment is key.

Become the President and CEO of You (and Give Yourself a Signing Bonus)

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 11 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Lockdowns were initially implemented to reduce COVID cases, prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed, and save lives. However, the lack of a clear plan and tools has led to economic, social, and emotional devastation.
  2. In order to navigate the risks of reentering public life, individuals are advised to become the President and CEO of themselves. This involves staying informed, having trusted advisors, understanding personal health risks, and assessing the public health situation of their state.
  3. Testing for COVID antibodies and the development of vaccines and treatments are crucial for safely reopening the economy and allowing people to resume normal activities without fear.

Follow the Facts (Even When Painful, Inconvenient, and Easy to Ignore)

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 09 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Coronavirus can be asymptomatic and easily spread, so staying vigilant is crucial.
  2. Nasal swab tests can have a high false negative rate, making it important to follow health guidelines despite negative results.
  3. Following facts and science, even when it's tough, is essential in protecting ourselves and our communities during the pandemic.

Don’t Succumb to the Tyranny of the Urgent

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 08 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Being alone does not always equate to loneliness; it can lead to self-reflection, growth, and meaningful connections.
  2. Do not neglect non-COVID related health issues; reach out to your doctor for a checkup, especially for concerning symptoms.
  3. Telemedicine is becoming more common and can improve healthcare access, allowing for remote medical consultations.

Make Your Move, Don’t Wait

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 07 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Connection is essential for our emotional and physical well-being, especially during times of loneliness.
  2. Don't hesitate to reach out and connect with others, whether it's through dating, calling friends, or seeking therapy for support.
  3. Taking the initiative to make positive changes in our lives, like adopting a pet or practicing self-love, can have a significant impact on our mental health.

Take the Hard Right Instead of the Easy Wrong

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 06 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Stay informed and follow the facts about COVID-19, like the rising death toll and benefits of social distancing.
  2. Show compassion to yourself and others, acknowledging the natural desire for connection and activities we can't currently enjoy.
  3. Choose the harder right decisions over the easier wrong ones to set a good example, prioritize public health, and look forward to a safer future.

Know your Body and Ask for Help When Something Feels Amiss

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 05 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  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.

Put Yourself on the Back

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 04 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Restrictions should ideally be relaxed when there is a sustained reduction in COVID-19 cases, hospitals can treat patients safely, and there is testing and contact tracing capacity.
  2. Getting antibody testing can provide valuable data in understanding illnesses and potential immunity.
  3. Deciding on activities like going to the beach involves a mix of scientific data, personal risk tolerance, and responsibility.

Make New Connections

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 03 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Human connections are essential for our health and well-being, and it's important to find new ways to connect even when physically apart.
  2. Being creative in how we connect can help us stay engaged and maintain relationships, such as planning virtual playdates or sending hand-written notes.
  3. It's a good time to make new connections, whether through online dating, reaching out to old acquaintances, or collaborating with intimidating coworkers.

Give Yourself a Break

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 02 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. It's important to give yourself a break, especially during times of stress and exhaustion. Don't be too hard on yourself.
  2. Taking care of your mental health is crucial in maintaining overall well-being. Self-forgiveness, rest, and relaxation are key.
  3. Remember that it's a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself and prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Make May Mindful

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 01 May 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Dr. Lucy McBride emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health in conjunction with physical health for overall well-being and better medical outcomes.
  2. Listening and understanding the patient's story is integral to effective medical problem-solving and patient-centered care.
  3. During mental health awareness month, Dr. Lucy McBride will be sharing daily mental health tips to promote mindfulness and holistic health.

Follow the Data

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 30 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Hopeful updates: Vaccine progress from Oxford University, potential emergency use of Remdesivir, and 'canine surveillance' for virus detection.
  2. Interesting medical developments: Rashes as COVID-19 symptoms, varying illness severity in different weeks, and the virus's impact on organ systems like the vascular system.
  3. Advice for coping: Maintain hope, journal thoughts, stay connected, try new activities, and keep dreaming big for the future.

Be Well

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 28 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Trauma can affect anyone, not just those who have been through extreme events like war or natural disasters.
  2. Recognizing trauma can lead to growth and healing, both mentally and physically.
  3. Mental health is crucial for overall well-being and should be addressed in medical care.

Get your Rest

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 26 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  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.

Pick your Mantra

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 24 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an effective therapy for managing intense feelings.
  2. DBT is comprised of four main areas: distress tolerance, emotion regulation, interpersonal communication, and mindfulness.
  3. Simple tools and strategies like ACTIVATE, CONTRIBUTE, COMPARE, PUSH AWAY, THINK, and SENSE can help process and redirect intense COVID-related emotions.

Keep on Keeping on

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 21 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Perseverance is key in tough times - just like in a marathon, focus on staying mentally strong and taking it one step at a time.
  2. Journaling and expressing gratitude can help reduce worries and stay positive during challenging times.
  3. Connecting with others, asking for support, and rewarding yourself for small victories can all contribute to getting through difficult situations.

No is the New Yes

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 20 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  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.

Fuel Up

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 19 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Quarantine fatigue is normal and affects everyone to some extent. It's important to find ways to take a break from the mental stress and pressure.
  2. Rest, exercise, connect with friends, and find sources of laughter to help manage adrenaline and release tension during quarantine.
  3. Stay vigilant with quarantine measures, practice self-care, and mark upcoming events for mental and physical well-being during the pandemic.

Trust the Future

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 18 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. States will decide for themselves when to reopen based on achieving four goals: hospital capacity, testing, contact tracing, and a sustained reduction in cases.
  2. In navigating the uncertain post-quarantine world, trust in science, nature, respectful individuals, self-love, and supportive relationships.
  3. Trusting in facts, self-compassion, and humor can help guide decisions during these challenging times and give us hope for the future.

Take your Temperature

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 17 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Taking your temperature is important to check for signs of illness like fever, which is a common symptom of coronavirus.
  2. Normal body temperature can vary throughout the day, but typically is considered around 98.6 F (37 C), and a fever is when temperatures rise above the standard range.
  3. Countries like China, South Korea, and Italy use various temperature-checking methods on a large scale, such as handheld thermometers, infrared imaging scanners, and even specialized glasses for detecting body temperatures.

Test your Patience

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 16 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Massive and widespread testing for COVID-19 is crucial and involves two main types of tests: nasal swab for active virus and blood test for past infection with antibodies.
  2. Current COVID-19 tests have limitations like not being 100% reliable and some safety concerns for the nasal swab test.
  3. To navigate uncertainty during the pandemic, it's important to focus on the present, validate your feelings, and find moments of calm and joy in everyday activities.

Know Where you’ve Been

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 15 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Contact tracing is crucial for controlling the spread of contagious diseases like COVID-19 by identifying and notifying individuals who may have been exposed.
  2. Implementing effective contact tracing faces challenges like technological coordination, privacy concerns, and the need for large numbers of trained personnel.
  3. Technology, like apps being developed by Apple and Google, could play a key role in contact tracing efforts by facilitating anonymous tracking of potential exposures.

Trust Science

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 14 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health
  1. Trust science for COVID-19 treatments: It's crucial to rely on scientific methods like randomized controlled trials and emergency use authorizations for drug approvals.
  2. Current drug treatments: Hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, azithromycin, and convalescent plasma are being explored for COVID-19, but careful monitoring is needed due to potential risks and uncertainties.
  3. Mental and behavioral health impact: Patience with drug development processes is important, collaboration among researchers is key, and humor can play a role in maintaining mental well-being during uncertain times.