Mental Health Topics

Relationship stigma from loved ones is linked to mental health issues. This, from a Pace University study that analyzed 467 adults in same-sex and/or interracial relationships. The team found that relationship stigma from friends was linked to greater depression symptoms and, in turn, poor overall health. Also, relationship stigma from…

Stress is a normal part of life, but when it becomes too much it can cause you to suffer physically, mentally, and emotionally. The good news is we have power over many potential external stressors—including the quality of our relationships. We often experience stress when our relationships are suffering, such…

A six-year study suggests that seniors who eat more than two portions of mushrooms a week may have 50% reduced odds of experiencing mild cognitive decline. Furthermore, even just one small portion of mushrooms a week could prove beneficial and reduce these odds. The research team reached this conclusion after…

Eating breakfast as a family could encourage body positivity among kids and teens. Researchers from University of Missouri Columbia analyzed the eating habits of more than 12,000 students from over 300 schools. These habits included how often the students ate breakfast and how often they ate meals with a parent….

Despite popular belief, music doesn’t always enhance creativity. In fact, it can produce the opposite effect. Researchers from Lancaster University found people who listened to music experienced a dip in creativity. This study presented participants with verbal tasks in either a quiet environment or one in which they listened to…

Before I took my leap of faith and adopted my dog, Mila, I surveyed everyone in my life to see what they thought. Did they think I could handle it? Did they think it was a good idea? Did they think I was ready for the responsibility? The overwhelming answer…

Overcoming fear relies on an unusual change in DNA. One day, DNA therapy could help to cure disorders like social anxiety or PTSD. University of Queensland researchers taught mice to fear and then unfear a specific sound. First, the mice were placed in a box and exposed to the sound,…

Diets high in fruits and vegetables and low in meat improve brain functions. A study from the American Academy of Neurology says your diet affects your brain’s mental and cognitive abilities. Researchers found that eating a lot of fruits and vegetables and small amounts of meat and dairy improved these…

In addition to providing love, support, and companionship, dogs are beneficial to our health and overall wellbeing. When we pet a dog, we form a bond and release the hormone oxytocin, which helps to relieve us of stress and anxiety. Dogs also promote an active lifestyle, which helps us to…

Spending time in a city park can make you happier. This, according to a University Alabama study that examined the emotional impact of visiting parks in urban areas.   Researchers found that spending just 20 minutes in a city park improved emotional wellbeing. Immersing oneself in the natural environment and…

Autism comes with learning and social difficulties—often, these individuals have difficulty focusing and struggle to connect or interact meaningfully with others. While many are aware of the struggles that these individuals face, the obstacles that are presented to family members often go unnoticed or undiscussed. So, how are family members…

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that typically appears in the first three years of life. It often impacts a person’s social abilities and interactions and can be accompanied by an assortment of learning problems (though, not always). ASD varies in its severity, and some people develop…