The Local Optimist Digest #47

Why shaking is good for stress relief, the impact JOMO (the Joy Of Missing Out) has on our mental health, how to recognize and respond to ‘guilt-tripping.’

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 to recognize and respond to ‘guilt-tripping,’ why shaking your body is good for stress relief, and the impact JOMO (the Joy Of Missing Out) has on our mental health.

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How To Recognize And Respond To ‘Guilt-Tripping’

Has someone who you consider a close friend or loved one ever used shame as a way to manipulate your actions and emotions? You may be experiencing "guilt-tripping," a tactic often used by individuals to control others. Common signs of guilt-tripping include feeling obligated to say yes, being made to feel guilty for expressing your own needs, and constantly feeling like you're walking on eggshells around someone. Experts outline ways to recognize these patterns of behavior and provide tips to foster uplifting relationships throughout your life. READ.

Why ‘Shaking It Off’ Is Good For Stress Relief

Good news. Recent studies have found a simple and effective 30-second technique to help calm yourself down: shaking your body. Research has revealed numerous benefits including stress relief and anxiety management. Experts chime in on the science behind shaking, elaborating on how the movement releases tension held in the body and burns up extra adrenaline to help return your body to a baseline state. READ.

Social Media And Its Impact On The Human Brain

In modern life, social media has cemented itself as an integral tool we as a society use to communicate and foster relationships. However, it is no new news that social media is also related to an array of mental health concerns. Researchers and doctors examine the potential long-term consequences of social media on the brain, exploring how it can alter our brain chemistry, affect our self-esteem, and lead to addiction. READ or LISTEN.

5 Ways To Set Healthy Boundaries Around News And Social Media

  1. Disengage: Set boundaries and limit the amount of time spent on news and social media.

  2. Distract: Pay attention to your body and temporarily redirect your attention when feeling anxious.

  3. Self-Soothe: Do something calming after distracting yourself.

  4. Get Support Off-Screen: Seek connection in ways other than social media, such as phone calls or in-person meetups.

  5. Follow Up With Hope: Consume the minimum amount of news necessary to stay informed and follow it up with something hopeful.

Read MORE.

Deposit Photos / PopSci

JOMO: Understanding The Joy Of Missing Out

In today's hyperconnected world, it's easy to feel like we're constantly missing out on something. But for some people, FOMO (the fear of missing out) is not a fear at all. If you tend to find enjoyment in solitude and often choose to sit out of group experiences, you may be experiencing JOMO (the joy of missing out). Experts explore the potential benefits and consequences of both phenomena, shedding light on the impact FOMO and JOMO can have on our mental well-being. READ.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)

This week, we are excited to highlight Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), a nonprofit organization in the United States aiming to stop drunk driving, prevent underage drinking, and provide support to victims of drunk driving crashes. Founded in 1980 by a mother of a 13-year-old girl who was killed by a drunk driver, MADD works to raise public awareness about the dangers of drunk and drugged driving. To learn more about MADD and ways to support, head 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.