Recent Blog Articles

Close relationships with neighbors influence cardiovascular health in Black adults

Why play? Early games build bonds and brain

5 numbers linked to ideal heart health

Rating the drugs in drug ads

Postpartum anxiety is invisible, but common and treatable

The popularity of microdosing of psychedelics: What does the science say?

Pouring from an empty cup? Three ways to refill emotionally

Is pregnancy safe for everyone?

New pediatric guidelines on obesity in children and teens

Screening tests may save lives — so when is it time to stop?
Ann MacDonald
Contributor
Ann MacDonald was the editor of the Harvard Mental Health Letter from October 2007 to January 2012. She has also written several editions of the Harvard Medical School Annual Report on Prostate Disease. Before working at HHP, Ann ran her own medical communications business. Previously, she served as eastern regional director for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. She became interested in mental health after her brother was diagnosed with schizophrenia in the late 1980s. Ann earned a BA in politics and women’s studies at Brandeis University.
Posts by Ann MacDonald
Ann MacDonald
New prostate cancer screening recommendation generates controversy and confusion

Ann MacDonald
How to become a better perfectionist
Ann MacDonald
How do you know if you have obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Mind & Mood
Therapy dog offers stress relief at work

Ann MacDonald
Some “natural” therapies may be safe, effective for mental health

Cancer
The mental and emotional challenges of surviving cancer

Cancer
Why Japan’s crisis causes worry, fear of radiation risk in the U.S.

Heart Health
How to do CPR when the heart suddenly stops: Press hard, press fast, don’t stop

Child & Teen Health
Teens who smoke pot at risk for later schizophrenia, psychosis
Ann MacDonald
Deep brain stimulation: Experts raise alarms about aggressive marketing

Cancer
What to do when health problems or medical treatments thwart your love life

Ann MacDonald
Use your brain to avoid weight gain—by fighting portion inflation

Ann MacDonald
Feeling S.A.D.? Lighten up if it’s seasonal affective disorder
Ann MacDonald
Good investigative reporting may finally debunk the myth that vaccines cause autism
Ann MacDonald
New insights into treatment-resistant depression
Ann MacDonald
Using the relaxation response to reduce stress

Ann MacDonald
Painkillers and drug addiction: An ongoing dilemma
Ann MacDonald
Why eating slowly may help you feel full faster

Ann MacDonald
Synthetic biology: Really cool science not yet ready for prime time
Ann MacDonald
Distinguishing depression from normal adolescent mood swings
Ann MacDonald
Advice for dealing with school bullies
Ann MacDonald
Dental fear? Our readers suggest coping techniques.
Ann MacDonald
Alzheimer’s study on biomarkers generates debate
Ann MacDonald