Apps on mobile phones have potential advantages as treatment aids. For example, as these devices tend to be with us throughout the day, they can be more helpful for real-time symptom and intervention monitoring than PCs. Also their increased portability and flexibility of use may enhance adherence to treatment. However, research into their effectiveness is limited at this point. However, this article [here] lists some examples of apps which might be helpful for a variety of issues.
Diet and depression
Whilst research remains at an early stage, there is some preliminary evidence that indicates that there is a link between mental health and diet. A BBC article [here] indicates that a Mediterranean diet which includes lots of fruit, fish, vegetables, nuts and cereals, may prevent depression and goes on to suggest some reasons why. Another news article [here] also indicates that junk food which contains a lot of fat or sugar, has the reverse effect and increases the risk of experiencing depression.
Getting the best 'bang for your buck' from exercise
Exercise has long been found to have a positive effect upon mental health. This article [here] attempts to pinpoint the most helpful amount and types of exercise in this regard. It states that exercising around 30-60 minutes between three and five times a week is most helpful. Exercising for more than 23 times a month or for longer than 90 minute sessions is associated with poorer mental health outcomes. Within these limits, all forms of exercise are helpful but team sports, cycling, aerobics and going to the gym appear to be the best.
Supporting someone in distress
This article [here] gives helpful pointers in regard to how to support someone who has had a miscarriage. However, it offers some general principles that may be helpful to support people who have experienced some other types of very painful losses as well.
Money problems and mental health: A vicious cycle
Money problems and debt can have a huge impact upon mental wellbeing. Mental health issues can affect individuals' ability to sustain employment and so earn money. This can result in a destructive vicious cycle as described in this article [here].
Sugar and mental health
There has been a growing body of work on the role of our microbiome (the microorganisms in our gut). Many people consume sugar as a form of mood relief (comfort food). This article [here] makes a link between the gut and mental health and makes the point that those who consume a lot of sugar can experience greater fluctuations in mood. It suggests that limiting sugar consumption has a beneficial effect upon anxiety in particular.
Is your depression a side effect?
This article [here] notes that many routine medications prescribed for physical rather than mental matters (such as oral contraceptives), can have depression as a side effect. Those that suspect that this is occurring should consult with their family doctor.
The experience of PTSD
The singer Ariana Grande believes that she developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a bomb was detonated at the end of her concert. She describes some of the symptoms she experiences and there is a general description of the condition in the article [here].
Sleep - A deep dive
Sleep is an important topic which is the focus of many other posts on this site. Joe Rogan is a very popular podcast host. In episode number 1109 [here] he interviews Matthew Walker who is a Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology. They discuss 'all things sleep' including why we sleep, what influences it, the effects of not getting enough of it and how we can improve our sleeping. (Be warned though, Joe is crude at times.)
Financial anxiety
It has long been established that there are links between deprivation and poorer mental health. This article [here] details a tragic case where financial stress led to a suicide. It goes on to list indications that an individual is experiencing such stress and contains some links to organisations who may be able to offer support.
Can psychedelic drugs help with depression?
This article [here] reports that a number of new medicines for depression (and anxiety) are being tested. These new treatments include drugs that have been available for a number of years, but have been previously used for other purposes. One such example is the illicit psychedelic drug LSD, which may remedy some of the negative changes to the brain that can occur in depression. Of course it is important not to take any such drugs unless under medical supervision.
Disruption of body clock can result in mental health problems
We all have an internal body clock that can be disrupted through events such as mobile phone alerts that occur when we are due to go to sleep or during the night. These articles [here and here] report that individuals with disrupted body clocks are up to 10% more likely to experience a mood disorder. This has obvious implications for the benefit of regular sleep routines that suit our 'clocks' and also the avoiding of distractions in the bedroom.
Eat yourself happy
This article [here] reports a finding that those who tend to eat alone also tend to be less happy. It describes the meal table as being a 'place of conversation, storytelling and closeness'. The article goes on to describe the benefits of a good (real life) social network (as opposed to an online one).
Postnatal depression
Having a baby is a massive life event that requires a huge adjustment. Some women develop symptoms of depression (and anxiety) following the birth. The article lists some tips which may be useful in helping new mothers to stay well. [here]. In England, increased resources are becoming available to help mothers in this situation [see here].
A picture of social anxiety
An interview [here] with a clinical psychologist who has written a book about social anxiety, gives a good description of some experiences associated with the condition.
Eight ways to boost happiness
This article [here] describes some methods of increasing levels of happiness. Probably one of the most powerful and easiest to consider for most people is engaging in exercise. The article suggests that surprisingly little exercise can make a difference. This topic is mentioned in more detail within other posts.
The effect of stopping exercise upon mood
It is well established that exercise can help to improve symptoms of depression. However, a study [report here] has looked at this relationship from another angle. It indicates that stopping exercise may trigger the disorder.
Health anxiety or 'hypochondriasis'
This article [here] describes one woman's experience of having this condition and it also details elements of her recovery story. Some tips for sufferers are offered at the end.
Burnout
This article [here] describes this condition which is defined as 'not a single event but a process in which everyday stresses and anxieties gradually undermine one’s mental and physical health'. The signs and symptoms are listed as well as some example approaches to help overcome the issue.