Mental Health Archive

Loneliness boosts risk for many health problems, and can even contribute to an early death. Many people find it hard to reach out to make new friends, but there are strategies that can help.

Blood pressure is the push of blood through the body, like water through a hose. Pressure depends on how hard the heart pumps, how much blood there is, and how tight small vessels are, all influenced by hormones, salt, fluids, and stress.

The COVID-19 pandemic affected children's developing social skills. Many children either didn't learn the skills they need to make friends - or those skills got rusty. Here are some ways parents can help.

A 2026 study suggests that people who engage in spiritual practices and communities are significantly less likely than non-practitioners to misuse alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and illicit drugs and better able to recover from substance abuse.

A 2026 study suggests that people who take GLP-1 drugs—prescribed for diabetes and weight loss—are less likely to develop a substance use disorder. Among people who already have addiction, use of a GLP-1 was linked with fewer complications such as overdose and death.

Burnout - whatever the cause - can lead to depression and anxiety, and affect your relationships and ability to function. But it's possible to replenish your energy and enjoyment of life.

Sibling rivalry is a remarkably normal feature of family life, but too much squabbling and competition can be hurtful, and can have lasting effects on children. What can parents do to manage this when it happens in their family?

Meditation can be a natural part of everyday life, similar to maintaining a healthy diet or exercise routine. In this video, learn how meditation can be simple, flexible, and can be practiced almost anywhere.

Women who experience severe premenstrual symptoms may have a condition called premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Antidepressants may relieve these symptoms and, depending on the person, can be taken intermittently instead of daily.

Third spaces are physical locations outside the home and work where people meet and socialize with other individuals. Add in a fitness component—gyms, exercise classes, walking groups—and the mental and physical health benefits multiply.