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 symptoms, causes, and treatment of delusional disorder, why daydreaming is so good for you, and Health-Ade’s five tips to support your gut health.

Exploring Delusional Disorder: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment

Delusional disorder is a psychiatric mental health condition that affects a person's ability to distinguish reality from false beliefs, even in the face of contradictory evidence. This psychotic disorder occurs when at least one delusion exists for a minimum of one month, without other symptoms of psychosis. Mental health professionals and scientists continue to study the condition, providing valuable insights into the symptoms, causes, and treatments of the disorder. However, individuals with the condition still face significant obstacles, such as stigma and limited access to appropriate care. READ.

The Mental Health Benefits Of Daydreaming

Coined by Julien Varendonk, “daydreaming” refers to the act of a conscious, wandering mind. It has been found that we spend almost half of our waking hours daydreaming, and apparently that’s a good thing. Studies have shown that daydreaming can actually enhance creativity, problem-solving skills, and memory retention. Despite being commonly viewed as an unproductive activity, new research suggests that daydreaming can be a valuable tool for personal growth and self-care. Experts weigh in on the subject and explore the three types of daydreaming, the reasons why we daydream, and how it can benefit our overall mental health. READ.

How Sex Tech Is Impacting Our Relationships

Valued at $30 billion, the sex tech industry is rapidly growing with innovative products like sexbots, smart vibrators, and personalized porn on the rise. However, the impact of sex technology on mental health and intimacy cannot be ignored. While sex technology has benefits like accessibility, stigma reduction, and pleasure enhancement, it also poses potential risks, including addiction, objectification, and disconnection from real-life interactions. Experts are looking at how future sex tech advancements will impact our mental well-being and emphasize the need for responsible use. READ.

Health-Ade’s 5 Tips To Support Your Gut Health:

1. Eat lots of high fiber fruits + veggies

2. Eat fermented foods often

3. Supplement with high quality prebiotics + probiotics

4. Use antibiotics only when necessary

5. Avoid excess alcohol

Read More HERE.

A Glance Into Mental Health Representation At The Oscars

While Oscar voters appreciate harrowing performances, critics suggest that films centered on psychological struggles may be “too depressing” to win Best Picture. Although several films in the 2023 race highlight mental health, critics believe that none of them are strong best picture contenders leading up to Sunday, March 12th. Some critics look at the history of Best Picture nominees and share why they think voters may end up overlooking fraught stories and favor more uplifting blockbusters like Avatar, Black Panther, and Top Gun: Maverick. READ.

SeekHer Foundation

This week, we are excited to highlight SeekHer Foundation, a nonprofit organization on a mission to bridge the gender gap in mental health and shift cultural norms holding women back from their well-being and success. SeekHer works to bridge this gap through advocacy, research, and support for leaders who are helping women through critical transitions & vulnerable life moments. To learn more about SeekHer Foundation and how you can support their mission, head HERE.

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