Menopause and Mental Health: Why You May Feel Sad, Anxious, or Unlike Yourself

Menopause can affect women and people assigned female at birth, including some trans men and nonbinary people. While many people hear about and expect hot flashes or changes to their period, the emotional changes can feel harder to name. Nobody warned me about this. Well, maybe it’s not that. Maybe I didn’t pay attention. I… Continue reading Menopause and Mental Health: Why You May Feel Sad, Anxious, or Unlike Yourself

When Depression Feels Like a Short Fuse Instead of Sadness

When you think of the symptoms of depression, anger is probably not one of the first few that come to mind. You probably think of sadness, apathy, or sleep disturbances. But anger, that feeling of having a short fuse and lashing out unexpectedly, is a fairly common emotion that people with depression have to manage.… Continue reading When Depression Feels Like a Short Fuse Instead of Sadness

Depression Symptoms That Often Go Unrecognized Because They Do Not Look Like Sadness

When most people think of depression, they think of sadness as the primary emotion. While that can be true, it is only part of the picture. Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It also affects how you think, behave, and even how your body feels.… Continue reading Depression Symptoms That Often Go Unrecognized Because They Do Not Look Like Sadness

3 Suicide Warning Signs to Look Out For

In 2023, suicide claimed the lives of 49,316 people in the United States. When a person dies by suicide, it affects family, friends, and communities, leaving them lost, confused, and in some cases, feeling responsible for their death.   “Death by suicide” means intentionally ending your own life. It’s often a way for people who… Continue reading 3 Suicide Warning Signs to Look Out For

Empowering Patients Through Goal Tracking: Insights From PLM’s Rapid Survey

PatientsLikeMe recently launched a rapid survey to its members focusing on health goal setting. Within 48 hours, over 100 patients responded, underscoring both the relevance of the topic and strong patient engagement. Results indicated that 92% of respondents considered personal health goals important in managing their condition, with the majority rating them “very important.” Furthermore, 69%… Continue reading Empowering Patients Through Goal Tracking: Insights From PLM’s Rapid Survey

How to Start Box Breathing for Stress Relief

Have you ever tried mindfulness or been told to try mindfulness? If you’re like me, it always seemed a little vague. Mindfulness is a type of meditation where you focus on being intensely aware of what you’re sensing and feeling in the moment. Practicing mindfulness involves breathing methods, guided meditation, and other practices that help… Continue reading How to Start Box Breathing for Stress Relief

Gender-Affirming Care May Lower Depression Risk

A new study published in JAMA Network Open has found that transgender adults who get gender-affirming hormone therapy have a lower risk of depression. The study highlights the mental health benefits of these treatments. At the same time however, access to care is becoming more difficult because of new laws and restrictions. What the Study… Continue reading Gender-Affirming Care May Lower Depression Risk

Does Menopause Actually Cause Depression?

A big question in the patient community surrounding menopause is its impact on mental health. Does menopause actually cause depression, or is it merely a side effect of mood shifts? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reports that mood changes are very real for those experiencing menopause or perimenopause. Perimenopause is the stage in… Continue reading Does Menopause Actually Cause Depression?

7 Strategies for Enhancing Health and Wellness with Chronic Conditions

Integrating Lessons Learned for Enhancing Health Over the past seven weeks, we’ve explored various ways to enhance well-being, offering insights on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. From the power of health perception to managing personal triggers, these themes combine to form a comprehensive approach to personal wellness. Here’s a summary of our key… Continue reading 7 Strategies for Enhancing Health and Wellness with Chronic Conditions

What to Do on Bad Depression Days

If you are struggling with a mental health condition, some days will prove more manageable than others. When living with depression specifically, you may find that on your worst days you are hopeless, exhausted, or even immobile. Some days, finding motivation for everyday tasks like taking a shower or getting out of bed may feel… Continue reading What to Do on Bad Depression Days