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Do weighted blankets help with insomnia?

Insomnia affects approximately 10% of adults in the United States, and it is common with mental illness. Insomnia is unlikely to get better on its own if not actively treated. Many people are interested in treatment options that do not involve prescription medications, and a study from Sweden investigated the effectiveness of a weighted blanket on insomnia symptoms for people with insomnia and mental health problems.

Navigating holiday pressures in the COVID-19 reality

The pandemic makes coping with holiday pressures a little tricky. If one is concerned about COVID-19 exposure at a holiday event, it may help to chat with loved ones to get support for a decision about whether to attend. If one must celebrate the holidays alone, it may help to grieve what is lost, savor past holiday gatherings, watch online religious services, and continue to practice special traditions—such as making holiday foods or putting up holiday decorations.

Navigating tricky relationships during the holidays

Almost everyone has a challenging relationship with someone in their life, and it may be someone you see only once a year. As we anticipate upcoming holiday gatherings, there are ways to prepare to navigate tricky situations and conversations thoughtfully and calmly.

A conversation about reducing the harms of social media

Social media can connect people across the globe, with a potential audience of millions of users. But no matter how many likes a post gets, it can feel like it's not enough, opening users — particularly young people — to potential mental health issues, and raising the question of whether the government should impose regulations on social media companies.

Can friends who listen help protect your memory and thinking skills?

A study published online Aug. 16, 2021, by JAMA Network Open suggests that older adults with good listeners in their lives have better thinking skills—despite decreases in brain volume—compared with people who don’t have good listeners in their lives.

Too much coffee may raise dementia risk

Drinking coffee daily can provide a welcomed mental jolt for many people. But new research suggests regular coffee drinkers should stop at five or six cups per day, as drinking more may increase their risk for dementia.

Mentally challenging jobs may reduce the risk of dementia

People with jobs that are more mentally stimulating may have a lower risk of dementia later in life.

Diets rich in flavonoids linked to better brain health

Diets rich in plant chemicals called flavonoids may help protect the brain.

Health and happiness go hand in hand

People who describe themselves as happy tend to have fewer health problems, a lower risk of depression, and longer lives. Research suggests that, on average, 50% of people’s general level of happiness is determined by genetics, with the rest dependent on the individual’s perception and specific circumstances. Some research suggests that people can adopt various strategies that can increase happiness, from forming stronger social bonds to investing in experiences to interacting more with outdoor green spaces.

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