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 the causes and effects of a superiority complex, how body language can be used to recognize and interpret emotions, and how to deal with the grief of a friendship breakup.

Superiority Complex Defined: Characteristics, Causes, And Effects

Having a “superiority complex” is one of those phrases we hear often, but have you ever stopped to think about what it actually means? Clinical psychologists believe that a superiority complex is when someone acts better than others to escape feelings of insecurity. Characteristics of a superiority complex include constantly comparing yourself to others, putting down people who may be better at something than you, engaging in situations only when you feel like you’re ahead, and overcompensating for real or imagined inadequacies. Having a superiority complex can lead to low self-worth, relationship difficulties, and career problems. Experts provide coping mechanisms and weigh in on the causes and diagnosis of a superiority complex. READ.

The Importance Of Recognizing And Interpreting Body Language

Body language is an essential, and often unspoken, component of communication. It conveys our genuine emotions and enhances the impact of our message. Our nonverbal cues, including gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact, often speak louder than words. Understanding physical behavioral cues can help us better understand our peers and their emotions (such as anxiety, anger, sadness, or happiness). Experts explain the benefits of understanding body language, offer tips for effective interpretation, and highlight the positive and negative signs of body language. READ.

The Unhealthy Aspect Of TikTok's ‘Lucky Girl Syndrome’ Manifestation Trend

The "Lucky Girl Syndrome'' has become the latest viral TikTok technique promoting manifestation and positive psychology. The trend simply involves the participant telling themselves, “I’m so lucky. Everything always works out for me.” Many TikTokers are convinced that stating this line out loud will result in an instantly better life. Experts weigh in on the micro-trend, saying that these misleading posts can create a distorted reality and contribute to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity for those who view the videos. READ.

Tips To Deal With The Grief Of A Friendship Breakup

1. Remind yourself why you let go of this friend

2. Don’t waste time on things you can’t change

3. Honestly think about the relationship’s effect on your mental health

4. Find forgiveness

5. Accept that it’s okay to be sad

6. Focus on yourself

Read MORE.

The Mental Health Benefits Of Rewatching Your Favorite Movies And TV Shows

We finally have a legitimate reason to binge-watch our favorite movies and shows more than once or twice. A recent study suggests that rewatching a movie or TV series you love can help provide a comforting escape and boost your overall well-being. According to experts, repeated viewings of familiar materials helps fulfill our emotional needs, provides comfort, gives us a sense of control over our lives, and connects us with our past. Cognitive psychologists elaborate on these findings and share more insight into the mental health benefits of rewatching your favorites. READ.

The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation

This week, we are excited to highlight The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, created to improve access to mental health services for Black communities in hopes of eradicating the stigma around seeking help and support. The foundation focuses its efforts on building culturally-competent resources, programs, and education across the country. To utilize their resources and tools or donate to the cause, head HERE.

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