The Local Optimist Digest #25

Welcome to The Local Optimist Digest, your crib sheet for the latest news in mental health. Whether you want to know how the government is (or is not) investing in our well-being, discover the latest research on how the mind impacts the body, or find out which celebrities are helping continue the conversation by opening up about their own mental health struggles, we’ll be covering it all here every week. This week, we're looking at how swearing affects our overall health, the toll that a common cold can have on our mental well-being, and why Disney’s first animated film showcasing a plus-size protagonist is causing controversy.

Oh sh*t – swearing can actually be good for your health

While we wouldn’t suggest dropping the f-bomb left and right, maybe we don’t have to “watch our mouths” as much as we thought. New studies published in Lingua show that the use of swear words can deeply affect the way we think, act and relate to each other. The studies found that swearing has the potential to help us create more profound bonds with one another, can improve our memory patterns, and even increase our pain tolerance. However, why these worlds hold so much power is still largely unknown. READ.

Does catching a cold take a toll on our mental health?

With shorter days and colder weather comes the cold and flu season. Although there are ways to protect ourselves, a runny nose, cough, or sore throat is inevitable for many of us this winter. Experts share that colds take not only a physical toll but also a mental toll on our well-being, having the potential to affect our sleep, concentration, mood, and social lives. Thankfully, professionals have recommendations on how to support your mental health through the congestion. READ.

Why TikTok remains a concern for our mental health

Many TikTok users are aware of the addictive nature of the app’s algorithm. What they still don’t know is how the app’s design to cater to users' preferences affects their mind. Experts say this is particularly concerning given the app’s massive popularity among young people, as they are being shown a feed that highlights suggested content rather than chronologically-recommended content. READ.

Looking for mental health care? 300 providers share their recommendations

Finding a therapist can be challenging. The Washington Post asked 300 mental health providers for advice when searching for support and care. Here’s what they said:

1. Be persistent, and cast a wide net

2. Be flexible with scheduling

3. Consider an out-of-network provider

4. See a therapist in training

5. Join a support group or therapy group

6. For college students, check out university health centers

7. Take advantage of your employee assistance program

8. Call hotlines

9. Try apps

10. Look into self-help options

Read MORE. 

The conversation on Disney’s first plus-size heroine

Launched on September 14th, 2022, the short ‘Reflect’ stands as Disney’s first film showcasing a plus-size heroine. Created to highlight a young ballerina’s journey to finding body confidence, many viewers see this short as a huge step forward for Disney. However, other viewers question why the plus-size heroine’s storyline had to relate to body dysmorphia, asking why she could not just be in the film and doing things unrelated to body image. Read more on the conversation HERE. 

The Show Me Campaign

Launched in 2007 by John Legend, The Show Me Campaign aims to promote social justice and equality. Through programs such as Teach for America, Harlem Village Academies, and New Profit, the Campaign works to support, elevate, and celebrate teachers across the nation. The Show Me Campaign also launched a 5-year campaign in 2015 to reduce mass incarceration rates and reverse the school-to-prison pipeline in the US that disproportionately impacts minority communities. To find ways to get involved or learn more about the Campaign click HERE.

Get Rewarded for Sharing the Digest

Welcome to our new referral program, in which we give you some goodies for sharing the Digest with people who might enjoy this mental health news recap (and its bad jokes) as much as you do.

Here's how it works:1: Use the 'Click To Share' button below to access your personal link.2: Send this unique referral link to friends or family through email or text.3: Earn rewards like Local Optimist stickers, The Madhappy Journal, and Madhappy hats when they subscribe to the digest. Must be based in the U.S.

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