Australia's impending social media ban is a hot topic for many families. As parents, you might be wondering how to guide your children through this significant shift. Social media has become woven into the fabric of daily life, particularly for younger generations, making this transition potentially unsettling. For some children, social media isn’t just a pastime—it’s where they "find their tribe," connect with like-minded peers, and feel a sense of belonging. Losing this platform may lead to a grieving process, as they navigate feelings of loss, frustration, or even isolation.

As the end of the year approaches, many of us feel a familiar sense of anticipation. The New Year promises fresh starts, clean slates, and the opportunity to become the best version of ourselves. But with these feelings of hope come the pressures of New Year’s resolutions. This tradition, while well-intentioned, often sets us up for disappointment, self-criticism, and feelings of failure. While resolutions may seem harmless, there’s mounting evidence that they may, in fact, be more harmful than helpful for our mental well-being. Let’s unpack why.

The holiday season is often depicted as a time of joy, connection, and celebration. Yet for many, it brings an unwelcome sense of loneliness—a quiet ache magnified by festive surroundings. When the world feels wrapped in togetherness, loneliness can feel sharper, more pronounced, and, at times, isolating. But there are ways to navigate this season with resilience, compassion, and perhaps even find moments of peace and connection.

For those living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), intrusive thoughts can feel overwhelming, disruptive, and even all-consuming. These thoughts are often distressing, sparking a range of emotional responses like fear, shame, or confusion. But what makes these thoughts especially debilitating is a mental process known as “fusion,” where the mind becomes so attached to a thought that it feels indistinguishable from reality.

When it comes to managing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the treatment for OCD, invites individuals to confront their fears directly, resist their compulsions, and, in doing so, gradually lessen the hold OCD has over their lives. However, success in ERP hinges on a crucial ingredient: consistency.

Friendships are one of life’s most treasured bonds, yet they’re often overlooked when we think about what makes life meaningful. For some, friends are as close as family, deeply rooted in shared history and mutual support. For others, friendships come and go, changing with life’s seasons, their impermanence no less enriching. So, is there a special value in long-term friendships, or do friendships of any duration serve just as well in the journey of life?