Blog - Healthy Minds Philly®

Finding Calm on Campus: How Spending Time With Animals Can Help Reduce Stress

Janine Monico2026-08-24T15:23:36-04:00August 21st, 2026|Anxiety, Awareness, Community, Depression, Mental Health, Self-Help, Stress|

As college students across Philadelphia pack their bags, move into dorms, and gear up for a new semester, many are already feeling the pressure that comes with balancing classes, work, social life, and new routines. It’s completely normal to feel stressed during this transition, but the good news is that research continues to show simple, accessible ways to support your emotional well‑being. One approach that has gained solid scientific attention is spending time with animals. A study published in a peer‑reviewed journal found that even brief interactions with animals (such [...]

Dancing to a Decrease in Depression Symptoms

Janine Monico2026-08-10T19:36:18-04:00August 14th, 2026|Anxiety, Community, Depression, Mental Health, Music and Mental Health, Self-Help|

Feeling down can make it hard to get out, meet people, or try something new. A recent study with young adults found that taking a weekly salsa class helped many of them feel less depressed, less socially anxious, and even a bit happier in everyday life. Salsa did not replace counseling or medication, but it gave people a fun, welcoming place to move their bodies and connect with others. What makes salsa special? The music is upbeat, the steps are simple to start, and you do not need any experience [...]

Best Mental Health Books for Kids and Teens

Janine Monico2026-08-10T15:20:10-04:00August 3rd, 2026|Anxiety, Autism, Awareness, Depression, Eating Disorder, Family & Youth, Mental Health, Self-Help, Stress, Suicide Prevention|

Kids and teens today are navigating their changing minds and bodies while under the pressures of social media, plus the pressure from parents who are trying to raise healthy kids. But when it comes to facing heavy topics like depression, anxiety, and body image, reading about characters with mental health conditions can help. When a child sees their internal struggles mirrored on the page, they learn that they are not alone, they are not broken, and there is a way forward. Whether you are searching for children's books about [...]

Helping the men and boys in your life talk about feelings

Janine Monico2026-07-17T06:37:54-04:00June 22nd, 2026|Men's Health|

Many men and boys grow up hearing messages like “toughen up” or “boys don’t cry.” Those messages can make it hard to speak up when they are stressed, sad, or overwhelmed. But talking about feelings is a strength, not a weakness. It can protect mental health, improve relationships, and even reduce risk for serious crises. Support the men and boys in your life by noticing and naming what you see without judgment. You might say, “You have seemed really stressed after work lately,” or “I’ve noticed you’ve been quieter than [...]