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.
This simple 15-minute mindset exercise can ease anxiety, science shows
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM A growing body of research is revealing how a short, simple activity that is done in just 15 minutes can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and promote long-term emotional well-being. The practice, called the Best Possible Self exercise, invites people to Read More...
More US states and cities are boosting minimum wages in 2026. What does it mean for workers?
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM As the federal minimum wage remains frozen at $7.25 an hour, unchanged since 2009, cities and states across the United States are taking matters into their own hands. In 2026, 88 jurisdictions will raise their minimum wage rates, offering millions of workers Read More...
Vision board ideas for adults: how to create one that inspires real change
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM A vision board might look like a crafty throwback to childhood afternoons spent collaging. But don’t write it off now that you’re #adulting. This practice is far more than a cut-and-paste project. Vision boards are a creative and science-backed tool for Read More...
Gift shopping for a loved one with cancer this holiday season? Here’s what actually helps
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The holiday season tends to magnify the pressure to find the perfect gift, especially when the recipient is facing cancer. People often hope that a warm gesture will communicate affection, encouragement, and presence during a frightening time. Yet gift giving Read More...
3 so-called bad habits that might actually be making you a better person
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Let’s be honest. Most of us have habits we wish we could kick. Maybe it’s venting too much after a stressful day, putting off that one task for tomorrow (again), or chatting about a coworker’s awkward lunchroom behavior. We often see these behaviors as Read More...
Australia’s bold move to ban kids under 16 from social media sparks important global debate
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Starting this week, on December 10th, Australia will become the first country to ban all children under 16 from having social media accounts. This is meant to be a sweeping law that covers TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Threads, and other Read More...
How to build a life that feels good: 5 guiding principles to happiness
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM If you’ve spent any time online lately, you know the world isn’t exactly short on advice. It feels like everyone is ready and willing to talk over each other and shovel out unsolicited counsel: “Fix your mindset.” “Rewrite your habits.” “Become Read More...
The simple daily habit that rewires your brain for resilience
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Writing may seem like just another mundane, ordinary task. We don’t usually think twice about scribbling down a quick note, typing out a text, or getting a journal entry down before bed, but its impact on the brain is surprisingly powerful. Research shows Read More...
Shereen Arent and Sambhali U.S. help uplift 80,000+ women and girls in India
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Women and youth empowerment through education Welcome to the final week of The Optimist Daily’s Annual Local Changemakers series, where we’ve spent five weeks celebrating community-rooted leaders driving bold solutions across the globe. We close this Read More...
How to handle confrontation the right way with expert tips for managing conflict
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Confrontation is often something people dread. It can cause anxiety and discomfort, but that does not always have to be the case. Addressing disputes head-on is essential for personal development and relationship building. Experts agree that confrontation, Read More...