Stress relief strategies that take five minutes or less
Managing stress well over the long term involves sleep, exercise, and consistent mental health practices. But not every stressful moment comes with space for any of those things. Research supports a range of faster interventions, some physical, some behavioral, that can lower heart rate, reduce cortisol, and shift the nervous system away from an anxious […]
Stress is unavoidable but these evidence-backed strategies actually make it manageable
From breathing techniques to therapy, evidence-based strategies can significantly reduce how often stress strikes and how deeply it takes hold. Stress is one of the few experiences that cuts across every age group, background and lifestyle. Most people are familiar with the racing thoughts before a high-stakes deadline, the tightness in the shoulders during a […]
Toxic positivity is officially harmful in 4 documented ways that new research confirms
Toxic positivity is the cultural habit of insisting on cheerfulness regardless of circumstances, dismissing negative emotions with phrases like everything happens for a reason, staying positive, or good vibes only, and treating emotional distress as something to be overcome through attitude adjustment rather than acknowledged and processed. It is everywhere. It is on motivational posters, […]
World Happiness Report sounds the alarm on social media and youth well-being
Most young people around the world are happier today than they were two decades ago. That is genuinely good news. But it does not apply everywhere, and the exceptions are striking. Youth in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several Western European countries are bucking the global trend, reporting declining levels of well-being […]
Understanding exercise-induced panic attacks: Causes, symptoms and solutions
There’s nothing quite like the exhilaration of a good run, where the endorphins make you feel unstoppable. However, for some, this workout high can quickly turn into a feeling of intense anxiety, leading to disorienting symptoms such as heart palpitations, dizziness and overwhelming dread. This phenomenon, known as exercise-induced panic attacks, can be debilitating and […]
How exercise can help alleviate anxiety
Exercise is a powerful tool for managing anxiety, helping to regulate hormones that influence mood. With about 31.1% of adults in the United States experiencing anxiety, incorporating physical activity into your routine can be a game changer. The connection between exercise and mental health When anxiety strikes, the last thing you might want to do […]
How to cope with a fear of cancer
Health concerns are a significant part of our lives, and a cancer diagnosis often tops the list of fears. A recent survey conducted by Public First for the University of Cambridge revealed that two-thirds of respondents in the UK expressed worry about receiving a cancer diagnosis more than any other medical condition. Why is cancer […]
High-fat diets and mental health: How your gut influences anxiety
High-fat diets, such as the typical Western diet, have long been associated with obesity and mental health disorders like anxiety. Recent research sheds light on how these diets may disrupt the gut microbiome and gut-brain signaling, contributing to anxiety. The link between obesity, high-fat diets, and anxiety Individuals with obesity are more likely to experience […]
Understanding antidepressants: Managing weight gain and other side effects
Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Lexapro, are known to potentially influence weight. While some patients may experience weight gain, the effects vary significantly among individuals. Impact of depression and anxiety on weight The relationship between mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, and weight changes is complex. According to experts, these […]
Understanding generalized anxiety disorder: Symptoms, causes, and management
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of daily life. Affecting an estimated 2% of adults in the United States, GAD can significantly impact one’s quality of life. It is more common in women and typically develops between childhood and middle age. Recognizing the symptoms of […]