Mental Health
Here you can read the latest news and research studies covering mental health. This is also the place to find out about different strategies on how you can reduce stress and boost happiness, and many other ways to look after your mental wellbeing.
Psilocybin shows yet another anti-depressive benefit: boosting optimism
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Psilocybin, the primary component found in some hallucinogenic mushrooms, is still making waves in mental health research. As scientists look for novel treatments for depression, psilocybin is emerging as a promising contender. A recent study by Monash Read More...
Changemakers of the week: Nature in the Classroom and The Man That Rescues Dogs
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Every day on the Optimist Daily, we report on solutions from around the world. Though we love solutions big and small, it is often the ones right in our communities that make the largest impact. A few weeks ago, The Optimist Daily asked you, our readers, Read More...
5 ways a 'no-spend month' can transform your life for the better
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Every day, social media bombards us with the most recent must-have products: a "life-changing" device, viral fashion pieces, or the hottest new beauty item. It's easy to fall into a loop of endless buying, adding to your cart only to feel overwhelmed and Read More...
How aromatherapy may enhance brain health and cognitive function
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Aromatherapy is often linked to relaxing and creating a peaceful environment, but new research suggests it may provide more than simply a pleasant aroma. A recent study from the University of California, Irvine reveals that diffusing essential oils may Read More...
Do you suffer from PTSD flashbacks? Playing Tetris may just help
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM A recent study from Uppsala University in Sweden discovered that playing the popular video game Tetris can drastically lessen flashbacks for people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This innovation could provide new hope to millions of Read More...
Do you have a toxic friend? A therapist's advice on how to set boundaries
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Friendships can be a source of joy and comfort, but unfortunately, even the most intimate connections can become toxic. Clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience Dr. Monica Vermani explains that a toxic person is “someone who is a negative Read More...
The 7 types of rest you need to feel truly refreshed
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Have you ever woken up from a full night's sleep feeling more drained than when you went to bed? Or do you find yourself zoning out while in conversation, even after having a good night's sleep? If you've felt exhausted despite getting enough sleep, you're Read More...
Savoring: the happiness hack you didn't know you needed
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM As the days become shorter and life seems to get busier, we're all looking for ways to inject a bit more joy into our routines. ‘Savoring’ is a simple yet effective way that is gaining favor in the area of mental health. Consider it a mental snapshot of Read More...
Challenge both mind and muscles with wobbly squats
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Squats are a gym staple, right? But what if this straightforward exercise also gave your brain a good workout? A recent study from Germany reveals that performing squats on unsteady surfaces not only develops your lower body but also improves your mental Read More...
Learning how to identify and defend against medical gaslighting
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Imagine you're in pain and know something's wrong, but every doctor you see dismisses it as "nothing serious." Unfortunately, this scenario is far too prevalent and even has a name: medical gaslighting. It occurs when healthcare workers minimize or disregard Read More...