How to Be More Confident: 9 Tips That Work
Confidence isn’t about being perfect—it’s about believing in your ability to try, fail, learn, and keep going. According to the American Psychological Association, self-confidence is the belief in one’s capability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish tasks, and it plays a vital role in psychological health and well-being. Whether it’s saying no, setting realistic […]
The Cultural Diversity of Healing: Meaning, Metaphor,and Mechanism
Healing is a universal human concern, yet the ways in which we heal vary immensely across cultures. Anthropologists have documented diverse systems of healing—from village shamans and herbalists to acupuncture, energy medicine, and spiritual rituals—each offering its own theory of illness, its own patient-healer roles, and its own symbolic actions for recovery. What unites these […]
Cannabis and Chronic Pain
Cannabis is often promoted as a natural alternative for pain relief, and in the U.S., it’s one of the most common reasons people turn to medical cannabis. But what does the science actually say? Despite growing public interest, research shows that cannabis is not consistently effective in treating most types of acute or chronic pain. […]
What to Do When You Want to Disappear
There are moments when life feels so overwhelming that the thought “I want to disappear” seems like the only escape. Whether it’s the crushing weight of daily obligations, relationship strain, or simply the grind of emotional exhaustion, this desire isn’t uncommon—and it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you. Wanting to vanish is often your […]
Preventing Exposure to Secondhand Smoke in the Home
Secondhand smoke poses serious health risks to both children and adults, and there is no safe level of exposure. The home remains the leading source of secondhand smoke exposure, especially for children. To protect your loved ones, make your home and car completely smoke-free, and encourage family members who smoke to seek help quitting. Smoking […]
Cannabis Facts and Stats
As cannabis use becomes increasingly common and widely discussed across the United States, it’s crucial to understand its health impacts, especially among youth and vulnerable populations. Cannabis remains the most widely used federally illegal drug, with over 52 million Americans reporting use in 2021. Of concern, about 3 in 10 cannabis users may develop cannabis […]
26 Quotes About Letting Go
When life feels overwhelming or your heart is burdened with grief, a well-chosen inspirational quote can act as a powerful grounding force. Though often overlooked, quotes have the ability to gently interrupt toxic thought spirals and offer perspective during life’s most difficult moments. Mental health professionals like Jessi Gholami, LCSW, emphasize that these are not […]
What to Say to Someone Who Is Depressed
When someone we love is struggling with depression, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to say—but silence or distance can unintentionally deepen their pain. Offering gentle words like “I care” or “I’m here for you” may seem small, but to someone feeling isolated, they are lifelines. Empathy doesn’t require perfect phrases—just honest presence. Listening […]
Risk and Protective Factors
Preventing youth violence begins with understanding that no single cause leads a young person to commit or experience violence. Instead, it’s a mix of individual, relationship, community, and societal influences. Risk factors—such as exposure to violence at home, poor academic performance, or associating with delinquent peers—can increase the chances of violent behavior. On the other […]
How to Get Started With Therapy
Beginning therapy is a meaningful act of self-respect—it means you’re choosing to prioritize your mental well-being. While it can feel intimidating at first, just deciding to explore your options is already a major achievement. Therapy looks different for everyone, so think about what setting fits your lifestyle best. If you value privacy and flexibility, virtual […]