This article [here] reports a finding that those who tend to eat alone also tend to be less happy. It describes the meal table as being a 'place of conversation, storytelling and closeness'. The article goes on to describe the benefits of a good (real life) social network (as opposed to an online one).
Postnatal depression
Having a baby is a massive life event that requires a huge adjustment. Some women develop symptoms of depression (and anxiety) following the birth. The article lists some tips which may be useful in helping new mothers to stay well. [here]. In England, increased resources are becoming available to help mothers in this situation [see here].
A picture of social anxiety
An interview [here] with a clinical psychologist who has written a book about social anxiety, gives a good description of some experiences associated with the condition.
Eight ways to boost happiness
This article [here] describes some methods of increasing levels of happiness. Probably one of the most powerful and easiest to consider for most people is engaging in exercise. The article suggests that surprisingly little exercise can make a difference. This topic is mentioned in more detail within other posts.
The effect of stopping exercise upon mood
It is well established that exercise can help to improve symptoms of depression. However, a study [report here] has looked at this relationship from another angle. It indicates that stopping exercise may trigger the disorder.
Health anxiety or 'hypochondriasis'
This article [here] describes one woman's experience of having this condition and it also details elements of her recovery story. Some tips for sufferers are offered at the end.
Burnout
This article [here] describes this condition which is defined as 'not a single event but a process in which everyday stresses and anxieties gradually undermine one’s mental and physical health'. The signs and symptoms are listed as well as some example approaches to help overcome the issue.
Supporting an individual with an eating disorder
Depression and meditaton
A personal account is given here of the development and experience of depression (and anxiety). The sufferer did not respond to medication and unfortunately does not seem to have tried the recommended psychological treatment for her condition. However, the good news is that she has managed to improve her symptoms with meditation training via an app called 'headspace' [details here].
Social media and mental health: A mixed picture for children?
The possible negative effects of social media has often been described in the media [e.g., here]. Images on these platforms can make children feel anxious and inadequate. Also it is a vehicle for negative interactions, for instance online bullying. However, for children living in care, the social connections that these platforms offer can increase a sense of belonging and connectedness in a way that is likely to have a protective effect in terms of mental health for this vulnerable group [see here].
You 'feel what you eat'!
This article [here] describes a developing understanding about the impact that diet can have upon mental health. It states that a lack of 'nutrients' such as magnesium, omega 3 and probiotics can directly affect the brain and so influence the development of psychological problems.
Sleep-related myths
This article [here] distinguishes between fact and fiction when it comes to sleep advice. In so doing, it offers some helpful tips to those who struggle with sleep.
Alternatives to self-harm
Self-harm can be a means of managing difficult emotions. This teenager [video here] appears to have found an alternative way of venting her anger.
Dysfunctional ways of coping
Many people develop seemingly destructive behaviours as a means of coping with difficult feelings or situations. This video clip [here] describes one individual's experience of literally pulling her hair out as an example of this (a habit that is called 'trichotillomania'). More commonly, individuals use alcohol as a dysfunctional means of coping. This article [here] describes a study that has found that up to 60% of adults use alcohol as a means of coping with the stresses in their lives.
Anyone can develop a psychological issue
Some people who experience a psychological difficulty feel that they must be weak in character in some form. However, anyone can develop a mental health issue. One famous example of a strong character who experienced depression is Winston Churchill. He referred to the condition as 'the black dog' [e.g., see here]. Here a boxer describes the effects of experiencing a mental health issue.
Benefits of the 'great outdoors'
People often feel better after spending time in natural settings. This article suggests some reasons behind this [here]. In particular, the article is about 'body image' but some of the suggested causes would seem to be relevant to other issues as well.
Use of creativity to relieve mental distress
Mental health difficulties have been long thought to fuel creative geniuses such as Vincent van Gogh and Sylvia Plath. These two articles describe how creative activities can be helpful in combating psychological difficulties, see [here] and [here]. Can you think of a creative activity that you would enjoy doing?
Technology and the development of new forms of mental health problem
As technology becomes more prominent in our lives in terms of work, 'play' and social life, forms of linked psychological issue can occur. These are started to be identified by mental health professionals. Examples of this are 'selfitis' (obsessively taking selfies - see here) and 'gaming disorder' (an addiction to video games - see here). Naturally, these developments are likely to be a source of debate [see here].
Depression: A hidden illness in the workplace
This article [here] describes how individuals experiencing depression often do not disclose difficulties in to their workplace. This is for fear of losing their job or it affecting future career prospects. It describes one individual's suggestions of how to support a work colleague when they are experiencing such difficulties.
Selfitis: Obsessively taking selfies
This condition was first identified within a 'spoof' article but now seems to be recognised as a genuine psychological disorder. A brief news article describes it [here].