On Our Minds

As we observe Men’s Mental Health Awareness this June, we acknowledge that while significant strides have been made in mental health in general, there continues to be a silent mental health crisis among men and boys in America.

I recently came across a quote online that really moved me. I had never heard of the man who said it (Matthew Hussey), and a quick online search led me to some very mixed reviews of him. He is a “dating” expert who seems to mostly give advice to women on finding the right man. I don’t appreciate or support this heteronormative standard and would possibly disagree with many of his perspectives. YET I still find this sentiment profound and worth sharing.

Does it seem like every day brings a news headline or social media post that makes you feel overwhelmed or anxious? If so, you’re not alone. Just hearing and seeing what is going on in the world can have a direct effect on your mental health. 

Managing grief and loss of a loved one during the holiday season can be painful, especially when the world around you seems focused on celebration, connection, and joy. Here are some gentle, practical ways to support yourself (or someone you love) through this emotionally complex time.

“Hot enough for ya?” This - or another similar phrase - is repeated almost daily at this time of year. It’s a hot summer. We all want to know how to cool off. The physical heat can make tempers flare. And anger is a normal emotion, so we all feel that “heat” of anger from time to time. How can we cool the flames of anger?

At Karuna, we recognize the unique challenges faced by transgender people. Recent legal rulings are creating a society where acceptance and safety can feel increasingly out of reach for transgender individuals. Karuna knows that the journey of self-discovery and authenticity is deeply courageous—and at times, isolating.

Whether it’s cat videos, laughter yoga, watching a comedy show or hanging out with a fun person, invite some fun and frivolity in your life. Connect with the playful part of yourself. Don't wait for this world to shape up before you give yourself permission to laugh again.

We are alive in arguably super-hard times. Hard in big ways for many of us. Plus all the small and regular-sized hards we often have. But that doesn’t mean we are obligated to struggle or bear witness to suffering (our own or others’) 24/7.

A good night’s sleep is closely tied to physical and mental health. Proper sleep is shown to improve attention and concentration, assist in converting short term memories to long term memories, keep your heart healthy and immune system strong, reduce stress responses, and improve mood.

Do you make Resolutions or set Intentions for the upcoming new year? If you are interested in doing this, it's important to set a goal/resolution in ways that support your success.