Try these two simple, science-backed tricks to stop procrastinating
While many may think otherwise, procrastination is not a behavior rooted in laziness. Rather, people engage in procrastination in a bid to avoid the “negative feelings associated” with that task, explains Timothy A. Pychyl, Ph.D., a psychology professor at Canada’s Carleton University and a Read More...
5 research-backed reasons why it’s important to have fun
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Everyone has a slightly different definition for fun, but whether you love hitting the town with friends or going for a long hike, research shows that having fun is good for your health, both mental and physical. Below, you can find five science-based reasons Read More...
Psychedelic-like drugs could treat depression without hallucinations
In recent years, scientists have increasingly been investigating psychedelic drugs for their medical benefits — such as treating depression — in controlled environments. While the results have been incredibly promising, there is a catch — these drugs can trigger hallucinations that can be Read More...
5 Mistakes we make when we're overwhelmed and how to avoid them
Feeling overwhelmed is something we can all relate to, and when we are in this mindset, oftentimes we end up reacting in ways that only aggravate the situation rather than improve it. Here are five common ways people who are overwhelmed tend to undermine themselves, as well as some practical Read More...
Study: Regular gardening improves mental and physical wellbeing
Whether you took up gardening during the pandemic or have been a lifelong cultivator, we have good news for you — a recent study found that the outdoor hobby may do wonders for your wellbeing, mental health, and overall life satisfaction. According to the study, conducted by the Royal Read More...
How to support kids as they break out onto the post-pandemic social scene
As we reach a new phase of the pandemic, we may find ourselves struggling to re-engage with the world and return to some sort of “normal.” The adjustment from staying home, away from friends, family, and group activities, to navigating social interactions once again is anxiety-inducing for Read More...
Riley the chatbot trains volunteers to respond to LGBTQ youth in crisis
The pandemic has exacerbated mental health struggles for many and for vulnerable communities, such as LGBTQ youth, lockdown has taken away valuable social connections such as time with friends and supportive adults. The Trevor Project, the largest LGBTQ crisis intervention nonprofit in the Read More...
Time outdoors boosted teens’ mental health during the pandemic
New research from North Carolina State University has been published, adding to the mountain of evidence that time spent outdoors is beneficial for both physical and mental health, especially during stressful situations like a global pandemic. To look at the impact time outdoors had on Read More...
TikTok adds features to support users struggling with disordered eating
Social media has allowed us to connect with loved ones far away, follow current events, and engage with different organizations and activists, but it has also opened up concerns over its impact on mental health, especially for young users. TikTok is hoping to address some of the negative impacts of Read More...
Cambridge study: Robot dogs, laughter and meditation may relieve loneliness
For many people, one of the most distressing parts of the pandemic has been dealing with the feeling of loneliness associated with social distancing rules. A new study shows that robotic dogs, mindfulness, and laughter therapy may be among the most effective interventions to help people cope. As Read More...