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 foster self-motivation, why receiving bad news can make us feel sick, and how to overcome procrastination.

How To Foster Self-Motivation

Self-motivation, the drive you have to work towards your goals, put effort into self-development, and achieve personal fulfillment, is a fundamental skill worth cultivating. Not only do we generally do better work when self-motivated, but we are also simply happier and better able to cope with stress while doing what we enjoy. With evidence-based strategies, exercises, and worksheets designed to spark motivation, experts offer practical advice to unlock motivation, optimize productivity, and embark on a journey of self-improvement. READ.

Why Bad News Can Make You Feel Sick

In an era dominated by the constant influx of news, it seems that negativity has become an inescapable part of our daily lives. But have you ever wondered how this barrage of bad news affects our well-being? Researchers are exploring the science behind our reactions to bad news, by examining how receiving negative news impacts our mental and physical well-being. Experts also provide insights into the interplay between our minds, bodies, and the stories we encounter daily to offer ways we can stay informed while safeguarding our health. READ.

How Technology Is Benefiting Student Mental Health

We often criticize technology, particularly social media, for its negative impact on young people's mental health. However, it is also important to recognize the significant role technology plays in addressing mental health issues. Not only does it contribute to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health topics, but it also actively supports, coaches, and connects young individuals through various self-help applications. Experts provide insight on how to use the benefits of technology to empower students, educators, and mental health professionals to pave the way for a brighter and more resilient future. READ.

How To Overcome Procrastination And Increase Productivity

1. Understand the root causes: Recognize the underlying reasons behind your procrastination, such as fear of failure, perfectionism, or lack of clarity.

2. Break tasks into smaller steps: Divide your tasks into smaller, manageable chunks to make them less overwhelming and easier to start.

3. Set specific and realistic goals: Define clear objectives and establish realistic deadlines to create a sense of purpose and urgency.

4. Create a structured plan: Develop a detailed plan with specific actions and timelines to help you stay organized and focused.

5. Minimize distractions: Identify and eliminate potential distractions, such as turning off notifications or finding a quiet workspace.

6. Use positive reinforcement: Reward yourself after completing tasks or reaching milestones to motivate and reinforce productive behavior.

7. Seek support and accountability: Share your goals and progress with others, such as a friend, colleague, or mentor, who can provide encouragement and hold you accountable.

8. Cultivate self-discipline: Practice self-discipline by developing good habits, managing your time effectively, and maintaining a consistent routine.

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The Benefits Of Wearing Certain Colors

Can the color you wear truly impact your mood? Research says yes; color has the remarkable ability to influence not only our mood, but also our behavior and stress levels. From vibrant reds to calming blues, colors have influences that go far beyond mere aesthetics. A color-psychology expert lends insight into this phenomenon, elaborating on how colors affect our emotions, play a role in our self-confidence, and hold the potential to leave a lasting impression on others. READ.

National Council For Mental Wellbeing

This week, we are excited to highlight the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and facilitating mental health and addiction treatment services in the United States. Their efforts focus on advocating for a more comprehensive and adequately funded approach to mental health and substance-use care. By championing life-saving legislation, strengthening the safety-net system for substance use and mental health, investing in provider capacity, and enhancing mental health literacy, they strive to bring about positive change. To learn more about the National Council for Mental Wellbeing 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.

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