Depression Archives - Healthy Minds Philly®

Nature-Based Therapy Tools for Enhancing Well-being

Connecting with nature is important for your well-being. For many of us, being in contact with nature can help us feel better. Some often report feeling better after doing activities outdoors or even when caring for plants indoors. According to the National Institute of Health, “Being outdoors in nature can be health-promoting, can decrease depression, and increase mental well-being.” Nature-based therapy, also called ecotherapy, green therapy, or horticultural therapy, uses nature as a tool for healing. It is part of holistic approaches to maintain our well-being and improve our health. [...]

Janine Monico2025-07-08T15:53:31-04:00July 8th, 2025|Anxiety, Depression, Mental Health, Self-Help, Stress|

Tango Into Community

Meredith is a renown tango performer and teacher with deep roots in Philadelphia. Her talent has taken her dancing all over the world, but now she is at home running the Philadelphia Argentinean Tango School in Fishtown. For 26 years, tango has been her anchor, providing a sense of belonging that had long eluded her. "Tango has been the first long-term consistent community that I have been part of," Meredith shares, highlighting the profound effect this dance form has had on her well-being. Her childhood was marked by loss and [...]

Janine Monico2025-07-21T09:26:14-04:00May 13th, 2025|Depression, Lived Experience, Music and Mental Health, Self-Help|

The Power of Social Tango Dancing: Community, Growth, and Calm

During summer, Philadelphia comes alive with festivals and public events, giving residents many chances to try new activities. These celebrations help people discover things that can enhance their well-being and bring global cultures into the city through music, food, art, and community gatherings. These occasions are a great time to embrace social dancing. A fun way to enhance overall well-being, social dancing offers physical, mental, and social benefits—such as increased confidence, reduced stress, and new friendships. To help Philadelphians discover how social dancing can improve health and happiness, HealthyMindsPhilly visited [...]

Janine Monico2025-07-21T09:26:22-04:00May 6th, 2025|Depression, Lived Experience, Mental Health, Music and Mental Health, Self-Help|

The Power of Early Intervention and Non-Crisis Chatlines

Through my experience providing support on the chatline, I have witnessed the power of non-crisis chat lines as urgent care for the mind. Our platform serves as a lifeline for individuals seeking understanding and validation, empowering them on their mental health journey. The Power of Early Intervention As a Certified Peer Specialist, I understand the importance of addressing mental health concerns early on. Too often, individuals hesitate to seek help until they are in crisis, feeling isolated and overwhelmed. Through the chatline, we aim to break down those barriers [...]

Janine Monico2025-03-25T15:38:16-04:00March 24th, 2025|Anxiety, Certified Peer Specialists, Depression, Stress, Support|