Mind

The mind-gut connection has been the target of increasing study in recent years. Not only has research shown the connection, but there’s been more awareness by people who battle depression and anxiety that they often have to deal with gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal pain and stomach upset.

Taking time to check in with yourself is a powerful practice for your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Follow these tips to create a personal health check in:

Even if getting scared isn’t an enjoyable experience for you, you probably know someone who is a thrill-seeker or enjoys frights and scary movies, haunted houses or rollercoasters. What is it about getting scared that is fun or enjoyable for some people?

Eating a healthy and well-rounded diet can improve mental health and make mental health obstacles easier to deal with. On the other hand, a poor diet can be a catalyst for poor mental health and can make it more difficult to manage mental health struggles.

By current estimates, more than 7 million children and more than 8 million adults in the United States have ADHD. Here are 8 tools to better manage ADHD for both adults and children.

Decluttering our digital spaces can become almost as necessary as cleaning and decluttering living spaces and may even need to be done more often. Here are some helpful ways to start digital decluttering and some benefits you may see as a result.

Pebbling refers to the practice of sending or leaving little day-brighteners or “pebbles” for others in your life. It has been described as a love language, an appreciation practice or a ritual form of communication for couples, friends and family. The term comes from the behavior of Gentoo penguins, who will present pebbles to other penguins they are bonding with, to use in nesting.

In the hustle of everyday life, it's easy to overlook the importance of self-care. I know when my schedule picks up, I have a habit of prioritizing my responsibilities over my own wellness. However, I’ve made the conscious decision to incorporate self-care habits into my routine.

Supporting a sick loved one is something that nothing can truly prepare a family for. It can be stressful enough going about your day-to-day life and trying to be supportive of each other, but when you add supporting a family member through illness, daily life activities can become more challenging.

I think I can speak for almost everyone when I say that my smart phone runs my entire life. Staying connected with friends, listening to music, and mapping me to my next destination. As someone who grew up in a world where cell phones always existed, it is hard for me to imagine a world in which I am not dependent on my smart phone

Taking time to clear your mind of thoughts, judgments and opinions can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. This practice is known as mindfulness.

Taking care of yourself and being mindful of your mental and overall health can be especially difficult when you are grieving. Self-care is important during times of loss, even though it may be difficult. Here are some ideas and tips for taking care of yourself and being mindful of your personal mental health while you grieve.

Mental health, anxiety and depression are topics many people shy away from because they can be uncomfortable to talk about. Breaking the stigma around mental health is extremely important because someone’s mental health is just as important as their physical health.

You may associate Labor Day with barbecues, fun and the end of summer, but Labor Day has long been tied to public health. The origins of Labor Day include movements for better workplace health protections and improved quality of life for workers. Here are some health benefits from Labor Day that may surprise you.

Mental decluttering is a process of clearing one's mind of excessive and unnecessary thoughts and worries to focus on the thoughts that matter. Individuals can use simple practices to declutter their minds. It just takes a few minutes a day to create healthy, sustainable habits.

When I imagined what life would be like in college, I never once considered I would be lonely. I had pictured an ideal movie montage in my head of staying up late, surrounded by friends and going to fun social events whenever I felt like it.

You may feel anxiety rising as summer nears its end and autumn and winter get nearer. This end-of-summer anxiety can be tied to a few causes. Learn how to recognize and deal with “August anxiety” or the back-to-school blues.

Are you looking for an activity that is good for all aspects of your health like physical, mental, and social? We have just the activity. Originating as a mixed martial art from China, tai chi is an activity that involves a series of gentle and slow movements, a meditative state of mind, and physical postures.

Reading out loud to your kids is a great way to spend time together and has multiple educational and emotional benefits for both kids and adults. Time spent together with books and stories can help kids’ reading and comprehension skills, as well as be a centering and calming practice for everyone involved, especially when reading together is part of a routine.

Alcohol is involved in cultural and social norms, including after-work decompression and socialization, but there are many ways to wind down after work and “chill out” that don’t involve alcohol.

While many women do fall in love with their unborn babies as soon as they see the two pink lines appear on their pregnancy tests, for others, it doesn’t happen quite that way. That’s OK; it doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you!

Adopting five new habits can help reduce your overall stress and have a positive impact on your life.

Trauma is an event or series of events that threaten your sense of safety or your life.

Music therapy experiences may include singing songs, playing instruments, writing music, or listening to music and analyzing the lyrics. Music therapy interventions can address a variety of health care and educational goals.

TikTok users are sharing their morning routines before settling down at their laptops at home or heading to work. Those using this trend are getting up earlier – 5 a.m. – to pack more into their days.

Ditching all the planning and your phone can alleviate stress and restore creativity. Giving yourself time on your vacation to restore your whole body will help you when you’re back home.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is often associated with the coming of winter and loss of daylight, but it can also be brought on in warmer months and is known as summer onset seasonal affective disorder.

There are many products and games marketed as memory aids or mind-sharpening pastimes explicitly, especially for older Americans. Do these exercises really help with memory or have a noticeable effect?

On top of growing your own food and plants, you could be relieving stress and improving your attention span every time you get in the garden.

Working from home has obvious benefits, but many of us who work remotely know it can also breed loneliness. These tips encourage movement and socialization. They may help you break up the monotony of the remote work day.

Avoiding stress can be a tall task with the demands of life and everything going on around you. There are lifestyle changes or habits that can help to alleviate routine stressors or triggers for stress or panic.

Have self-compassion and don’t feel like you need to enjoy or recognize Mother's Day. Allow yourself to feel the emotions you have rather than pressuring yourself to feel happy or joyful.

It is common sense that being around nature, fresh air, and pleasant images or aromas from plants can be soothing. But are there actual healing benefits to healing gardens?

Ready to lower your blood pressure and feel more relaxed? Indoor plants might be a worthy investment. Let’s look at how they can make you feel better – and why.

I’ve noticed something about my anxiety over the years – that almost every year it feels like my anxiety heightens around mid-March/early-April. Each year, it comes as a surprise to me. Learn more about springtime seasonal mood changes.

Just like our bodies, our brains change as we age. But there are exercises and activities that can slow or even prevent some of that decline.

Mental health advocate and contributing writer Monica Drake shares why she decided not to drink this St. Patrick's Day — and her plans to celebrate the Irish holiday without the alcohol.

Feeding and eating disorders are considered mental health disorders and medical illnesses. Understanding the types, signs and symptoms is important, regardless of an individual’s age and gender. 

Have you heard of sleep syncing? This TikTok trend could lead you down a path toward better sleep. Here are the bullet points.

Who says meditation has to be solitary, still and boring? Get active in your practice with these five moves. Meditation takes many forms, and these five can be a boon for your physical and mental health.

Mental health advocate and contributor Monica Drake shares her experience with the let-down effect after planning and celebrating her wedding, and how she dealt with the feelings of listlessness after the big day.

Thinking about popping into a tanning bed to ward off the winter blues? Not so fast.

Did you know emotions associated with the “winter blues” can affect 10% to 20% of people this time of year? These tips can help you combat those emotions.

Most dogs are naturally happy and even excited to see their owners. They wag their tails, lean against their owner, stick close for a head scratch or a friendly greeting. It’s a welcome-home reaction that’s pretty hard to beat. It speaks to the bond most people have with their pets, and this relationship has lots of perks for the owners, too. Four-legged friends bring their owners both mental and physical benefits as part of their relationships.

Many of us can afford to shave down the amount of time we spend on social media. It's also a useful professional tool, and can be a boon to our social lives in small doses. Balance is key.

Cleansing your face each day has bigger benefits than just healthy-looking skin.

Here are six tips on tackling clutter and organizing. If you’re dealing with items inherited from parents and items your grown children have left behind, these pointers are especially helpful.

Clutter doesn't always refer to physical items. If your house and your life feel a little messy, it’s time to declutter for the New Year. Here are some tips.

Is your space running out of...space? Before you buy more organizational products, consider going the opposite direction and getting rid of some of the clutter. That can be easier said than done, so here are some tips.

Contributor and mental health advocate Monica Drake writes about how she is managing the holiday season while grieving a recent loss in her family.

When your weeks feel cyclical and repetitive, try treating a weekend like a vacation. Here's how to unplug, unwind, and get into that vacation mindset.

Integrative health expert, keynote speaker, radio personality, business owner and NASM Master Trainer Angela T. Moore talks about the pros and cons of New Year's resolutions. Are they bad? The answer might surprise you.

If stress has become an uninvited guest on your vacations or work trips, you may have travel anxiety.

This year, trade your big New Year's resolutions for small goals that will make you healthier.

If scrolling and swiping makes you feel less than festive, don’t let social media put a damper on your holiday celebrations.

Ready to add a little more zen to your life? Try these 5 kinds of meditations.

Mental health advocate and contributor Monica Drake shares how she learned the difference between impulsive and intrusive thoughts -- and how they affect her mental health.

If getting back from a trip gives you the blues, here’s how to overcome post-vacation depression.

Contributor Monica Drake shares what you can do if the holidays aren’t feeling so joyful right now.

Dr. William T. Beecroft has advocated against alcohol abuse for much of his 40-plus-year health care career. Here, he reflects and shares some candid thoughts.

Holidays can mean overeating to the point of stretchy pants and undoing some waistband buttons. But they don’t have to.

The holidays are as stressful as they are joyous. When it comes to shopping, traveling, decorating and family time, here are ways to mitigate the stress.

Superheated environments like saunas have physical and mental health benefits.

Contributor and mental health advocate Monica Drake writes about one of the biggest triggers for her anxiety -- change -- as she prepared to get married.

integrative health expert, keynote speaker, radio personality, and business owner. She's a NASM Master Trainer, PAngela T. Moore explains the different types of workouts available and how you can decide which one is best for you.

While it’s often thought of as an adult wellness activity, kids can realize the same health benefits by discovering their inner “yogi.” Why not start them early?

When you eat intuitively, you listen to your body. You trust it to let you know when you are full and satisfied. You also reject the new fad diet of the month. Here are the benefits and risks.

Booze before bed may seem like an OK way to help you doze off quickly. But the tradeoff is usually fragmented sleep, wakefulness and a very groggy day after.

Contributor and mental health advocate Monica Drake writes about what Suicide Prevention Month means to her and why.

Can what you eat slow down age-related cognitive decline or early signs of Alzheimer’s?

School is back and so is the juggling act that comes with life on campus for college students. BCBSM'S 2023 corporate communications interns recently shared their diet, exercise and self-care regimens.

Learn about WAIT, which offers simple suicide prevention advice.

Having trouble staying organized at school? Adding structure to our lives can bring out the best versions of ourselves. Here's what a routine-oriented approach can offer.

Recognizing and addressing the red flags in a friendship can be crucial to your mental and physical well-being. Start an open dialogue with your friend if you encounter these five red flags.

Since the unknown is one of the biggest triggers for my anxiety, it’s no wonder that dating had such an effect on me.

Swim in a lake, walk in the grass or lay on the sand and you might get the benefits from grounding.

When facing problems with breastfeeding, women may experience feelings of depression or symptoms similar to post traumatic stress syndrome.

Most of us spend too much time on our phones. You’d be surprised how much mental clarity you gain by cutting down on your screen time.

Summer intern Mike Merucci shares how writing one sentence per day helped boost his creativity and his mental health.

If you are a frequent social media user, you might have stumbled upon the latest health trend called a “dopamine detox.” But does it work?

It's a busy world. But when you take time to do nothing, you can passively check in on both your mental and physical health.

Contributor and summer intern Caitlyn Begosa writes about starting her first year of college out-of-state, and how she learned to adapt.

Contributor and summer intern Olivia Durkee shares how hiking has helped her mental health and become an outlet for her stress.

Contributor and mental health advocate Monica Drake shares how her pets have helped her mental health.

Reconnecting with an old friend can feel good. You being the one to initiate the contact can be good for both of you.

These six areas of social wellness can unlock a better, more well-rounded health profile.

Brain teasers are not only fun but good mental exercise that supports a variety of cognitive functions.

Summer intern Jenna Natwick shares how becoming a gym regular has helped her with her anxiety.

Ready to follow the new trend of #luckygirlsyndrome? Here’s how to start.

Licensed therapist, NASM master trainer and integrative health expert Angela T. Moore shares signs you're carrying too much weight — mentally and physically.

Contributor and mental health advocate Monica Drake shares her experience with panic attacks, and talks about the strategies that help her manage them.

A Summer Solstice meditation session might be just the thing to get your mind and body in sync for summer.

As more people lean into meditation, here’s what to know about creating your own meditation garden.

Men worry about their appearance more than you think. Learn how to improve body image and get rid of negative thoughts once and for all.

Contributor and mental health advocate Monica Drake shares how her anxiety has affected her feelings on having a family in the future.

Contributor Mia Gallucci writes about trying to practice mindfulness without meditating — all while doing everyday activities.

Often unpaid caregivers sacrifice their health and well-being to meet the needs of a loved one. Here are some tips from the experts on how to ask for help.

Being resilient is about more than just your attitude. How well you handle the rollercoaster of life impacts your health.

Relaxation is key to combating high stress levels. Spa treatments are a great way to reduce stress levels and achieve a level of relaxation.

Licensed therapist, NASM master trainer and integrative health expert Angela T. Moore shares how to know when it's time to take a break from work and rest.

Stress can creep up on all of us, especially if we’re juggling working from home. Here’s how to better manage remote work stress.

Contributor and mental health advocate Monica Drake shares how starting an exercise routine has helped her manage her anxiety.

Spotting a warbler perched on a pine branch or a hawk soaring overhead can be thrilling. But birding also has mental health benefits.

Removing clutter can have a positive impact on a person’s mood and mental health. Learn more about the mental benefits of spring cleaning.

Contributor Mia Gallucci writes about her inspiration for learning a second language — a journey that took dedication and consistency.

Helping someone who struggles with drug or alcohol addiction achieve recovery is a process that is different for everyone.

Like the saying goes, laughter is the best medicine. From a giggle to a guffaw, here are all the ways that laughing is good for you.

Relationship issues, family drama and a tight budget all are things that can add up to tiny traumas.

Contributor and mental health advocate Monica Drake shares how she managed her feelings when life felt pointless — and how she got help.

Do you ever ask yourself, “Is it the weekend yet?” If you do, it might be time for you to start trying to find joy in the present.

Results from a new study that tracked thousands of people in the U.S. show regular vitamin D use may help prevent dementia.

Guilt, remorse, stress: These have no place in our feelings about meals and snacks. Here’s how to improve your relationship with food.

It’s important to love yourself for who you are today. These self-care tips can help you love yourself a little more than you did yesterday.

There may be some parts of your life that may be more cluttered than you realize – and causing you stress. Here are six things to spring clean.

Tired of tossing and turning? If you’re looking for more restful sleep, a weighted blanket might help.

If the thought of springing your clock forward is not appealing, here are some ways to ease into Daylight Saving Time.

Feeling down or like you’re having too many bad days? Here are a few things you can do to improve your mental health.

Gracefully Greying health correspondent Lila Lazarus brings a new way to positively impact your health: journaling.

Can having good friends make your memory better? Here’s how social circles are good for your brain.

Find your inner bookworm again with these tips for getting back into reading.

Writer and mental health advocate Monica Drake offers a reminder for American Heart Month that taking care of your mental health is good for your heart.

Finding “food freedom” should be a goal for anyone battling an eating disorder, according to an experienced dietician from West Michigan.

Licensed therapist, NASM master trainer and integrative health expert Angela T. Moore shares her personal journey through trauma.

Learning the different types of eating disorders, as well as the signs of an eating problem, can help as a first step. Here’s what you need to know.

It’s time to kick some of those cold-weather habits to the curb. Here are a few ways to beat the winter blues.

Losing a pet can be very difficult. They’re more than just animals. Often, they are beloved members of the family.

You might be able to change your mood as easily as you change your wall color. Here’s how a new coat of paint can boost your mood.

Surrounding yourself with vibrating and overlapping sounds can be relaxing. Here’s how to create a sound bath at home.

Monica Drake shares how reading books from diverse perspectives has helped her as an adult — and imagines how they could have helped her when she was younger.

Lose weight. Get a new job. Be happier. Instead of setting hard-to-reach goals, why not let self-care be a New Year’s resolution?

From outdoor cafes to teens’ bedrooms, little strings of lights are popping up everywhere. What is it about them that makes you feel better?

Setting aside an hour, a half-day or more to focus on activities that make you feel good, mentally and physically, is a trend worth trying.

Ready to put away the beer and wine? Ditch the liquor? Here’s how to make a Dry January work for you.

When it’s not the “baby blues,” certain symptoms following childbirth could be postpartum depression. Here’s how to tell the difference.

Why do Danish people tend to rank higher in happiness? It just might have to do with hygge, their philosophy that’s all about coziness and self-care.

Make Up Your Mind Day occurs every December. Do you know what it is all about? If you are the indecisive type, observing this day could help.

This year, if you’re looking for an alternative to a New Year’s Eve party, try creating a healthier holiday tradition for you and your family.

Licensed therapist, NASM master trainer and integrative health expert Angela T. Moore discusses the importance of talking about mental fitness.

Have you heard of “SMART” goal setting? It’s a goal-setting approach that can help you set goals that are attainable and realistic.

Contributor Monica Drake dispels the myth that entering the new year has to mean changing yourself — and offers advice on how to increase self-confidence.

Vitamin D is an important vitamin that helps you stay healthy both mentally and physically.

Shopping, party planning and last-minute errands can cause holiday stress. Here’s how to lift your spirits and enjoy the season.

Holidays can be stressful. Here’s how practicing mindfulness can help you get the most out of the season.

Baking is already a favorite holiday activity for many people, but research shows that baking can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Being an advocate for health is not only important on the field, on the track, in the arena, or on the court; it is even more important in our daily lives.

Carefully and intentionally selecting and using your music can help you practice mindfulness and feel more in control of your feelings.

Smiling makes you feel better, science shows. Not feeling like grinning? Fake it until you feel better, doctors say.

What you eat can improve your mood and your overall brain health.

Smashing old dishware with a baseball bat can be cathartic in the moment, but rage rooms may not be a long-term solution for stress relief.

Adopting a mindful mindset can help you have a holiday that’s more relaxed, intentional and joyful. These tips can help you do just that.

Nostalgia can make you feel comforted if you are feeling lonely, grounded if you are feeling overwhelmed or act as a distraction if you are feeling stressed.

It can be tough to prioritize homework in college while juggling so many responsibilities. These four strategies can help.

Is it after Halloween? Is it after Thanksgiving? How early is too early to decorate for Christmas? We dive into it here.

Contributor Angela Moore shares a story of how she was sucker punched while kickboxing — and how it reminds her of how trauma impacts the body and mind.

Contributor Monica Drake writes about how scary movies — along with mental health treatment — have helped counteract her anxiety.

Whether you’re giving a rebel yell or participating in a group scream-in, what will scream therapy really do for your body?

Contributor Stephanie Munier Radant shares how she was met with support and kindness when she came out to her coworkers.

Mascots for the Detroit Lions and Detroit Pistons are featured in these short segments aimed at helping kids learn about mindfulness and meditation.

The next time you’ve had a busy day, it might be time to mix, chop or sauté your way to a better frame of mind.

I am currently a college senior and I have only recently learned how to prioritize my mental health.

Contributor Monica Drake writes about how crisis lifelines can help someone experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Elizabeth Sanders says sharing her grief in essays proved cathartic as she mourned the loss of her husband’s death at 34. It also helped her find love again.

Virtual reality exposure therapy helps you face your fears in a safe, no-stakes environment. Here’s what to know about this relatively new treatment method:

Knowing the signs and types of depression can help older adults get the treatment they need to feel better.

Angela Moore reflects on her journey to healing and how she overcame using her past as an excuse.

Do you find yourself feeling blue during the summer? You may have summer seasonal mood disorder. Here are the signs and what you can do about it.

Brain fatigue is real. It’s also a form of mental self-preservation after hours spent doing a lot of concentrating.

Having a morning ritual can get your whole day off to a positive start.

Thirst, a pounding headache and sensitivity to bright light are all signs of a hangover. Anxiety can be, too.

When you focus on implementing healthy behavior and changing habits instead of worrying about numbers on a scale, the results will follow.

Chavonn Hussey writes about the self-soothing techniques that she has found have helped her maintain balance with work, life and mental health.

For many kids, social anxiety is a large stressor when going back to school. Combat those uneasy feelings by creating an anti-anxiety back to school kit.

Contributor Monica Drake writes about why it's so important to check in your child's mental health — and to get them help if they need it.

Think mindfulness isn’t for you? If these myths are holding you back, find out why you might want to incorporate this practice into your everyday life.

Our lives can be dominated by technology and constant updates about the world around us. Mia Gallucci shares her journey to challenge her daily routine.

Your habits should help breed a healthier, smarter, and ultimately, happier you. Here are nine habits to work into your life to boost your mental health.

Contributor Monica Drake shares a personal story from a friend who came out as gay; and how the legalization of gay marriage affected his outlook.

Many people are preparing to make the back-to-the-office transition. Here are some ways to stay healthy while making that change.

Acute, chronic and complex trauma can have damaging effects on the body if not treated. Therapy, lifestyle changes and a few other options can help.

Related to acupressure, tapping is a way to create a mind-body connection to lower your stress level.

Keep your memory sharp as you get older by incorporating these simple habits into your everyday life.

Monica Drake, writer and mental health advocate, shares her mental health journey. “You are not alone in this. Millions of others, including me, are with you.”

Preventing and managing long-term stress can lower the risk for serious health conditions.

A love for water can give you a Blue Mind boost, and the science behind blue color psychology can make you feel calm and relaxed.

Before broaching the topic with a loved one, consider educating yourself on hoarding disorder, which impacts approximately 2.6% of people.

When does a drinking habit become a drinking problem, and how does stress fuel that vicious cycle? We talk to a medical expert about what impacts it can have on…

Don’t be afraid to reveal your wounds so that you can heal. You have the resilience and the strength to not only heal but also thrive in your life.

Here are some common factors to look for to see if your body is reacting to stress.

Binge eating disorder is the most pervasive eating disorder in this country, yet most of it still remains hidden behind closed doors.

It’s time for more than just spring cleaning. Learn how to refresh your life to celebrate spring.

How to Expand Your Flavor Profile: Why Trying New Things is Healthy and Good for Your Brain

Call it the new version of positive thinking, or even the ultimate expression of self-care. Here’s what to know about manifesting and how it works.

Taking time to engage in an activity that brings you joy – like hobbies – can be an incredible act of self-care that has proven benefits for your mind and body.

Time management is a tool to give yourself control over what you can – empowering yourself to be able to handle the stresses of the unexpected.

Are you mentally wrestling with certain problems that are leaving you emotionally wrung-out and fatigued? Here are tips to avoid all that overthinking.

Sudden changes can be tough to make, mentally as well as physically. There’s a better chance for success if people make gradual progress toward a goal.

It can be easy to get wrapped up what you can do versus what is best for your health. Setting boundaries is a healthy part of any relationship.

There’s a reason taking part in random acts of kindness makes us feel better, and why it’s good for us to do more of them.

How tidy our spaces are around us – in our car, in our homes and in our workspaces – truly can affect our mental health. Clutter can make us feel anxious.

Have you ever washed your face and felt your mood improve? The simple act of caring for our skin can have a big impact on our mental health.

And why you MUST be mindful of mental health.

Getting a good night’s rest doesn’t start when you hit the lights at the end of the night: you need to lay the groundwork for good sleep throughout the day.

Obsessed with what your friends are saying and doing on social media? It’s time to turn your FOMO into JOMO.

From mindless scrolling on TikTok to leaving dirty clothes on your bedroom floor, it’s time to learn how to break bad habits.

Daily exercise doesn’t mean spending an hour lifting weights. Moving your body for 30 minutes a day in moderate ways can improve your mental and physical health

Self-care means engaging in little actions to improve your physical health and happiness. Here’s how to get started.

Journaling is a powerful tool to help process emotions. It can help you reduce stress, solve problems more effectively and resolve disagreements with others.

As we start the New Year, one of the best ways to set your intention for 2022 and ground your thoughts is by starting a meditation practice.

New Year’s Day is the most popular time to kick off resolutions, but most don’t last. Find out how you can make yours a success.

The pandemic gave us some new habits. Let’s keep the best ones that will help us do better in 2022.

Chatting with your child about traumatic events can be tricky. Discussing such a sensitive topic requires patience and an open line of communication.

It can be tough to embrace a season with snow, cold and ice. Here’s how to get mentally prepared for winter.

Shopping lists, social media and get-togethers that feel like a chore all can add stress to the holidays. Here’s how to be more present this year.

There’s no right or wrong way to react when exposed to a traumatic event. It may be difficult to put a name to our own feelings. And we may even feel completely numb – even in the face of extreme tragedy. Coping with our reactions is important, and is the first step to healing.

While the holiday season is often a time for celebration and family gatherings, for many the holiday season is a time of sadness and despair.

Friends who are constantly negative can drain your energy and influence your mood. But there are approaches you can take to provide all parties with relief.

More companies are joining the conversation about mental wellness. So how do you talk to your boss about taking a mental health day?

From the graceful arc of a cast to the slow drag of a line through water, here is why fishing as meditation might be your next stress-buster.

Award-winning photographer Steve Jessmore found there’s truth in a new study that concluded that birdwatching brings more happiness than money.

Letting people know you’re ready to help them is often the first step in supporting someone who is in recovery from substance abuse.

Feel like your life is a whirlwind? Organization and your health are related.

Treating chronic pain shouldn't just focus on physical causes. You also need to look at psychological and social issues.

You don’t have to be an Olympic star to see that your mental health can affect your sport. Here are some tips for your inner athlete.

From depression to heartburn, there are lots of ways grieving a loss can impact your mental and physical health.

Grief from losing his dog tapped into pain LGBTQ+ activist Tommy Allen had experienced for decades. Exacerbated by the pandemic, this trauma led to depression.

Americans are notorious for being preoccupied with work, which means they’re missing out on the critical benefits of truly taking a day off to rest.

Neglecting self-care can have serious effects on both your health and your ability to be a good parent. Here’s how to put yourself first sometimes.

Learn how to help people in your life experiencing mental health problems.

Teens text, share photos and scroll endlessly. But too much time on social media may be harmful to your children’s mental health.

Stress can be sneaky. You may not even realize it’s rising until you feel overwhelmed.

Feeling stressed? Here’s what it’s doing to your physical and mental health.

Learn more about the benefits of laughter to your overall wellbeing.

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, yet we approach them in very different ways.

Positive relationships have big health benefits. Here’s how you can use the holiday to celebrate friends and loved ones.

As a child, Betsy Thompson didn't fit the mold for kids with ADHD. It was years later as an adult that she sought help and discovered she had the condition.

When people think about their health, they often consider physical and mental well-being, but an important third component is financial well-being.

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is believed to be triggered by changes in the amount of daylight during certain seasons.

These bite-sized mantras have risen in popularity. See what they can do for your mind and body in 2021.

If you want to start the new year with a dose of optimism, try selecting a daily affirmation.

Think beyond the New Year's resolution for a healthy lifestyle.

Is taking care of your mental health on the top of your New Year’s resolutions list? It should be. Here are some ways to put that in motion.

If one of your health goals is to cut back on the amount of time you spend on your phone, having a concrete plan with achievable goals will help you succeed.

Whether you're bickering about politics, homeschooling or dirty dishes, these tips will help you have healthy, constructive conversations.

Mindfulness can make a difference during the holidays when dealing with stressful situations heightened by COVID-19, financial worries and other issues.

With the ending of a difficult year, there’s an opportunity to reset for a better for a better 2021. Plan for a healthier year with these tips.

Using a journal can help you solve problems effectively, reduce stress and anxiety and cope with emotional traumas, including grief and loss.

Seniors staying safe by staying at home have lost normal social connections, increasing their risk for isolation and depression. Listen for warning signs.

Can the way we spend money contribute to happiness? Find out how spending money on experiences rather than material "things" might lead to more satisfaction.

This year has been tough, but there have been lessons to carry forward. As we look ahead to 2021, take a second to pause and reflect on the good from 2020.

When you’re experiencing the winter blues, exercise is probably the last thing you want to do, but research shows it can help improve your mood.

Finding out which mental health disorders could be in your family tree might take a little detective work but can be valuable information for your own health.

Have a lot of feelings dealing with the election? Here’s how to handle those emotions in a healthy way.

A long history of stereotypes present men as either emotionless or weak when they do express emotions. It's time for these stereotypes to change.

Noticing a persistent, excessive, and unrealistic worry about everyday things lately? Read on to see if you meet the criteria for Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

September is Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month. If you or someone you know has been showing signs of self-harm, here’s how you can help.

Overwhelming news stories and stats can quickly put us in a funk. Finding joy in the everyday can help.

It’s hard to know what to say to or do for a grieving family member or friend—especially in the digital era.

Manage your stress better with these 5 tips on how to unwind and relax.

You might be years removed from playing organized sports but life coaches can often play a valuable role in helping you reach life goals.

Lack of motivation can put a strain on your mental health. Follow these tips to re-start if you're in a rut.

A few tweaks to your workspace can make 9-to-5 your most creative and productive time of the day.

Research points to a variety of ways friendships benefit our well-being. It might be time to give your bestie a call!

The song goes “Summertime and the living is easy.” But for some, that’s not always the case.

Use your senses of sight, touch, hearing, smell and taste to center your mind when you're feeling anxious. Try this mindfulness technique to overcome worries.

People with mental health issues often stay silent due to feelings of shame. Here’s how to help overcome that stigma.

Those who believe in the science of grounding support connecting individual bioelectromagnetic fields with the earth’s electromagnetic field.

Stress is usually part of your daily routine. However, incorporating yoga and different types of breathing into your daily routine can help lower your stress.

Many people who have experienced a traumatic event may not recognize that they have PTSD. By increasing awareness, more people will feel empowered to seek help.

Looking to grow your own garden? These recycled household items can help you get started.

Every time you think something mean about your own body or someone else’s, you are hurting your own happiness. Here’s how to stop.

It’s important for older adults to seek meaningful ways to stay engaged for their mental health. These research-backed ideas can help seniors find purpose.

Therapy can be beneficial for anyone who feels they need a listening ear while they work through something going on in their lives.

Is your social scrolling bringing you down? Add some positivity to your feed with these fun and positive accounts to follow.

There are many different types of meditation and the key is to explore the various styles until you find one that suits you best.

Professional athlete Kevin Love shares his mental health struggles, here’s why it’s important to be vocal about your own experiences

Do you have questions about your drinking habits? Read these tips from New Directions Behavioral Health to understand the signs of problem drinking behavior.

From creative outlets to health and wellness changes, there are plenty of ways to work on yourself. Here are our favorite ideas.

KC Mehta, like many caregivers, faces isolation and loneliness because of the all-consuming nature of the work he does to care for his wife Sumi.

Alzheimer’s disease has changed many aspects of Sumi Mehta’s personality. One constant, says husband KC, is her smile.

Sumi Mehta was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 59. Her husband KC, remembers it as “the saddest day of our lives.”

Beyond the mere satisfaction you may receive from helping select the next president, voting also has some surprising health benefits.

Meet David. Last year he quit a decades-long caffeine habit cold turkey.

Are these winter months getting you down? These tips will help you relieve seasonal affective disorder symptoms.

What happens in our body when we believe we’re falling in love? Spoiler alert: it doesn’t involve Cupid and his bow and arrow.

Self-compassion doesn’t depend on meeting certain ideals or reaching possibly unrealistic goals. It comes from caring for yourself as you are.

Ready to embrace a healthier lifestyle? Bring in the new year with these seven life-changing habits.

Gratitude can help you view life with different eyes. Find out how to start your own practice.

Feel a lot less stressed over the holidays with these meditation apps aimed to help you relax, sleep, and calm anxiety

Coming up with a goal is one thing, sticking to it is something else. Here are the top mistakes people make with their resolutions so you know to avoid them.

More than half of Americans consider the holidays stressful. Here are some tips on how to navigate the season and avoid the holiday blues.

The holidays are especially fraught with challenges to remaining cool, calm and collected. These seven tips can help you get through the season.

The holidays can make it tough to eat healthy and exercise. Stay motivated during the bustling holiday season with these seven tips.

As fall transitions to winter, the decrease in sunlight may have a deep impact on your mental wellbeing.

Unfortunately, many illnesses and conditions, both physical and mental, are stigmatized in society.

Gratitude is more than a feeling. It's a mental, physical and spiritual behavior that can drastically impact your health.

Did you know that reading has health benefits associated with it? Read on to find out what those benefits include.

When you’re dealing with a crisis, there’s no “right” way to react. However, there are some helpful dos and don’ts that can help you navigate the unexpected.

October is National ADHD Awareness Month and this article highlights some tips to curb ADHD symptoms beyond medication.

Lung cancer can impact all individuals – not just smokers. Read on to learn more about this deadly disease.

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly known as ADHD, has generated a large amount of conversation lately, and with that, misconception.

Nearly 14% of adolescents struggle with depression, a mental health condition often compounded by stress, poor diet, lack of sleep and other factors.

Mental illness can impact everything from work to social lives. It is often viewed differently because it can not be physically seen.

You may feel obligated to say yes all the time, but one of your greatest tools is the word “no.”

For some caregivers, it’s hard to find balance between taking care of yourself and the person you’re caring for. Read up on these tips to protect your time.

Going to college is a huge step in your life, and there is a lot to do before moving in. Read here to find out more!

Make sure you're ready for exams this school year. Here are some great tips to be a successful student.

Sometimes you need a little pick-me-up to get through the work week. Read up on some fun, inexpensive ideas.

Simplification looks different for everyone and each person has their own method that works for them. Here are some of our tips on how we keep things simple.

Being perfect isn't always a good thing. Perfectionism can negatively impact your life. Make sure you know the signs and how to cope.

If you’re caring for a loved one, there could be aspects of caregiving that will surprise you. Read on for what to expect and how to cope.

Studies have shown that listening to classical music can have several health benefits, including stress reduction and better sleep.

People with ADHD have a higher chance of developing Seasonal Affective Disorder. Learn how individuals can lower their risk and treat symptoms.

Dealing with changes due to a new job, moving, losing a loved one, getting married or having a baby can be difficult. Here are coping tips to help you adjust.

Men are less likely to address mental health issues like stress and depression. This can lead to more serious conditions affecting them and their families.

As they enter retirement, seniors may struggle with their value or sense of purpose. Here are seven meaningful activities for post-retirement life.

Did you know that there are some pretty great apps that focus on your mental health?

Nearly half of Americans often feel alone or left out. Learn how to cope with loneliness and how to implement strategies to help you feel connected.

For this writer, talking openly about her depression and anxiety is a way to let others know they’re not alone and that seeking treatment is important.

Regardless of mental health history, practicing self-care on a regular basis ensures a healthy mind, body and spirit throughout life.

When you sleep your body transitions through different cycles. Learn about what happens at each stage and how each cycle affects your health.

Have you ever experienced a traumatic brain injury? From mild to severe, here’s a breakdown of the most common TBIs.

Though we know the benefits of a good night’s sleep, that doesn’t always mean we have the ability to catch the proper amount of Zzz’s. These tips can help.

Do you suspect a loved one is dealing with an eating disorder? Here’s how to approach such a sensitive topic.

It can be hard to keep the romance alive in your relationship after decades together. Read on to discover why it’s worth working at and get real-life tips.

Learn how you can help spread awareness of eating disorders and provide help and hope to those that suffer from them.

Just because you’re in love doesn’t mean you won’t sometimes disagree. Learn how to keep the lines of communication open without saying something you’ll regret.

If de-cluttering and organizing isn’t exactly sparking joy for you, it’s possible you need to find your organizational spirit animal. An expert shows you how.

Learn more about how creative outlets can have a positive impact on your life.

There's a connection between creative pursuits and your mental and physical health. Find out why you should take up a creative hobby today.

To improve your mind and body in 2019, you don’t have to tackle grandiose health goals. You might just need more hugs.

Why do some New Year’s resolutions succeed, while other’s fail? Discover the winning psychology behind goals that stick.

The new year is a great time to renew your commitment to a healthy mind, body and spirit. Here are little tweaks to do just that.

Sixty percent of people set New Year's resolutions and only eight percent achieve them. Make sure to set some fun resolutions you'll keep this year!

You don’t have to go to a wild party to ring in the new year. Here are fun ways to spend the evening with your family and friends.

Ready to clean up your diet? Here’s how to break your junk food habit once and for all.

Why connecting with nature is as vital to good health as wellness visits, preventive screenings and daily vitamins.

Being grateful is a life-changing practice that can be done anywhere at any time. Here's how to find the silver lining in any situation.

Going through your college years and saving money can be hard, but here's why it is so important for your future.

Coming out can be an emotionally trying experience. Read on for tips about how to navigate your journey in a way that’s right for you.

Try these honey-infused DIY self-care recipes for head-to-toe glowing skin.

What really causes people to procrastinate? It might be a fear of failure or anxiety. Read on for tips to cope.

While depression doesn’t always have a direct cause, there are certain stressors that can trigger depression at different ages. Learn about risk factors.

Learn about the signs that could indicate a mental health crisis and how to help.

Here are some tips to help regain your independence once a relationship comes to an end.

Here are some tips to make your staycation all about self-care and space reinvigoration.

Heard of bullet journaling? Find out how this low-tech organizational tool helped a Grand Rapids woman get it all together.

Road rage is more common than we think, and is easily managed with the right skills. The first step in dealing with aggression on the road is recognizing the signs.

Self-compassion is treating yourself as you would a friend when you’re upset or disappointed. Use some of our tips to cultivate a happier mind and body.

When we start to take brain injury seriously, we can prevent the everlasting impact my injuries have left me with for the rest of my life.

A list of some of the best locations across Michigan to help provide resources to LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Post-graduation can be the most stressful time of your career, but here are some excellent tips to stay on track.

A 101 on all things art therapy: how it works, what it treats and who is impacted by the treatment.

Research shows that having a hobby may improve lots of different areas of your life. To get you going, here are some hobby ideas to check out:

Help stop the stigma surrounding mental health by educating yourself on the topic.

It's easier than you think to bring more positivity into your life–these four steps can help you get there.

The number of Americans living with Alzheimer's disease is growing. It's important to understand the disease to detect and provide accurate diagnosis earlier.

Refresh your morning routine with these tips that will set you up to seize the day!

Color therapy, or the use of different hues to change your mood, is more powerful than you may have thought. Here’s how to use colors to turn your day around.

Is laughter really the best medicine? Find out how it can help your health and where the science is still unclear.

There is a growing market for games that supposedly improve your brain’s function. But before you buy one, there are some things you should know.

These quick and easy fixes will have you sleeping better at night and leave you feeling energized during the day.

Being a little selfish during the holidays doesn’t have to be a bad thing. It’s actually good for you!

African Americans and Latinos are less likely to seek mental health treatment. Find out why and how to help combat the stigma of mental illness.

These tips will help you avoid loneliness as you age.

Are you putting too much pressure on yourself to live a healthy lifestyle? Find out if your good intentions are bordering on an unhealthy obsession.

Have you ever considered going on a silent retreat? Learn more about what a silent retreat is and the associated benefits.

Sound therapy uses sound and vibrations to find a deeper sense of calm and relieve stressors in your life.

Next time you reach for the snooze button, think again. Learn why you may be losing out on healthy sleep.

Sometimes you can’t get along with everyone, but there are ways to deal with pesky co-workers.

Summer is coming to an end, which means it’s time to get serious about bedtime. Here’s how to make the transition smooth for everyone.

Hear from one of our A Healthier Michigan team members who decided to limit her cell phone use for a full work week. This is what she learned.

Budgeting doesn’t have to be a painstaking process. Take control of your finances, stretch your dollar further and improve your health by sticking to a budget.

Consider some of these remedies to get yourself (or a loved one) through the loss of a pet.

Poetry helped Marcel Price process mental health diagnoses and trauma from his youth. As GR’s new poet laureate, he’s trying to help others find their voice.

American Sign Language is a fun and beneficial language to learn, plus you’ll be exposed to a great culture and community.

Does social media ever make you feel bad about your real life? It might be time to set boundaries for the sake of your mental health.

Do you pay close attention to song lyrics? Turns out they could be good, or potentially harmful, for your health.

Have you ever thought of trying hypnosis as a remedy to heal an ailment? Hear from a young woman who used hypnosis to treat her IBS.

Learn the four common symptoms of PTSD that may affect those recovering from a traumatic experience.

A Grand Rapids doctor says patients affected by the opioid epidemic need understanding and evidence-backed treatment to become well.

Are nonverbal signals getting in the way of what you’re trying to say? Find out if you’re unintentionally sending the wrong message.

This post discusses why people say sorry so much and how to break the habit.

Try these low-cost ideas to give yourself the ultimate spa day at home.

Learn how to relieve anxiety that comes with the end of a great vacation. You’re not the only one feeling blue!

There are quick and easy ways to alleviate common stressors and help us focus on the task at hand.

Summer is the perfect time to re-connect to nature and to yourself.

Advice from a therapist on choosing the right therapist.

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Fidget spinners are definitely a fad, but there are some valid reasons why they are so popular right now.

13 Reasons Why brings teen suicide to forefront, but fails to bring awareness to reality of depression and suicide, and options for help

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Here, one person’s story about what it’s really like to have depression–and what ultimately gave him hope

Depression, anxiety and mood disorders are ranked number one among the top five health conditions in the U.S. Here are realistic ways to change that.

A key to managing everyday stress is setting realistic, manageable goals. Here are 10 tips to help manage stress.

Believe it or not a cluttered space can lead to a cluttered mind. Spring cleaning can increase productivity, save time and improve physical and mental health.

Ever wondered just how much having a furry friend improves your health? You might be surprised.

When patients believe they can rely on health care professionals to support them, even if they are not ready to change, they’re less likely to hide the truth.

Running helped Sasha Wolff deal with her depression. She’s started a community called Still I Run to help others do the same.

Cooking can be a great way to spend time together as a couple, but watch for these common issues that might cause a relationship flare-up.

When you spring forward, your body can get confused and cause you to feel exhausted. Here’s how to adjust to the time change easily.

If you do them right, naps can help you catch up on sleep and feel more energized. Here’s how to do it the right way.

As a parent, it’s important to teach your kids how to deal with criticism–both negative and positive. Here’s how to do just that.

Untreated depression not only can decrease quality of life, but can also affect the well-being of friends and family. Learn more about how your doctor can help.

January is the perfect time to get organized. Here are a few tips to help you tidy up so you can focus on being healthy this year.

Worried that you were a little too ambitious with your New Year’s resolutions? Instead of giving up, why not update your goals a little?

Take back your vacation time this year by planning a getaway closer to home. These tips will get you started.