The dreamy, nostalgic charm of Studio Ghibli-inspired content is everywhere — cozy morning routines, nature walks, and soft music creating a perfect picture of peace. But behind the aesthetic lies a growing sense of FOMO. In this episode, we will unpack the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways FOMO shows up in our lives—from social comparison and yearning to an existential self-doubt.

But what if there's a different way to meet these feelings? Here's introducing - Mudita. A Buddhist heart-based practice of feeling genuine joy for others without envy or lack, as a powerful tool to shift from comparison to compassion.

Join us as we reflect on how you can navigate the pressure of social perfection and find joy in your own pace and path grounded in presence, enoughness, and shared joy.

Addressing workplace gaslighting requires a combination of resilience, assertiveness, and effective strategies to safeguard your mental health and professional reputation. The first step is to identify gaslighting behaviors, such as being dismissed, having your contributions minimized, or receiving unwarranted criticism. Gaslighting is a deliberate form of manipulation designed to make individuals question their perceptions, making it essential to recognize its patterns.

Keeping a detailed record of incidents can help build a factual foundation to challenge manipulative behavior. A 2020 study in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology highlights the value of documentation in resolving workplace conflicts, as it aids in identifying and exposing recurring instances of gaslighting.

Seeking support is equally important. Sharing your experiences with a trusted colleague, supervisor, or HR representative can provide validation and practical guidance. A 2021 study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) found that organizations with transparent grievance systems foster greater trust and are more effective in resolving issues like gaslighting.

Establishing boundaries and practicing assertive communication are crucial tools to counteract gaslighting. Assertiveness involves expressing your thoughts and feelings clearly and confidently, without becoming defensive, which can help you maintain control in difficult interactions.

Additionally, seeking mental health support, such as therapy, can provide coping mechanisms to manage the psychological impact of gaslighting. A 2022 meta-analysis in Psychological Bulletin found that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in reducing stress and self-doubt linked to workplace harassment.

While confronting gaslighting can be challenging, recognizing it, building a support system, and prioritizing emotional resilience are essential steps to protect your well-being and cultivate a healthier work environment.

https://www.healandhealtherapy.com if you're experiencing it.

According to the APA Dictionary of Psychology, gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation intended to make a person doubt their experiences, memories, or sanity. In the workplace, it often manifests through persistent denial of facts, undermining others' confidence, dismissive comments, or twisting feedback to create confusion and self-doubt.

Research highlights the severe mental health consequences of workplace gaslighting. A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that employees subjected to gaslighting report higher levels of anxiety, depression, and burnout. The manipulative nature of gaslighting also leads to reduced job satisfaction and productivity, with victim/survivors often second-guessing their abilities. This psychological stress can spill over into personal relationships, further deteriorating mental well-being.

Statistics reveal the prevalence of workplace gaslighting. A 2021 survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) found that 36% of employees have experienced manipulative behavior akin to gaslighting, often from supervisors or colleagues in positions of power.

By creating a toxic work environment, gaslighting undermines organizational culture and trust. It’s essential to recognize these behaviors and their profound mental health impacts to address and mitigate their harm effectively.

Trigger Warning: Suicide

Want to know how to help a friend experiencing suicidal ideation? In this episode, Aadhyaa - who's trained in the ASIST model of suicide prevention - gives a brief overview of the model.

Every year, over 700,000 people die by suicide, with one death occurring every 40 seconds globally (WHO, 2021). Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-29, and for every death, over 20 attempts are made (WHO, 2021).

Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders are some of the most common contributors to suicidal ideation. Other factors include social and economic pressures, such as job loss, discrimination, debts or relationship breakdowns. 

So, how can you help? Start by creating a safe space. Ask your friend directly about their feelings—it won’t increase risk and can open the door for a crucial conversation. Listen actively and without judgment, validating their emotions rather than offering immediate solutions (NIMH, 2022). Encourage them to seek professional help, whether through therapy or crisis resources. Additionally, help keep them safe by removing access to harmful means, like medications or weapons, and check in regularly to show ongoing care.

Remember, suicide prevention is about empathy, connection, and hope. Your support could be the lifeline they need. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help—there’s always hope.

Disclaimer: This podcast episode is NOT to be considered as a training module on the ASIST Model of Suicide Prevention. It is just an overview and summary. You can check out the training here: ⁠https://livingworks.com.au/training/livingworks-asist/#:~:text=The%20two%2Dday%20ASIST%20workshop,access%20help%20and%20find%20hope.⁠

And if you'd like to seek professional support, you can you book a free consultation with Heal&Heal Therapy:

In this episode, we explore the widespread issue of loneliness and social isolation, uncovering its prevalence and deep impact on mental and physical well-being across all age groups. Recent global statistics reveal the alarming scale of the problem. A survey by Statista shows that 33% of adults worldwide experience feelings of loneliness. In the United States, the CDC reports that nearly one in two adults struggles with loneliness, with the highest prevalence among young adults aged 18 to 34. Women report feeling lonely more often than men, while men report a greater lack of social and emotional support. In the UK, almost half of all adults reported feeling lonely in 2022, with 7.1% experiencing chronic loneliness, which has risen since the pandemic.

The consequences of loneliness are profound. Among children and adolescents, it is strongly linked to depression, anxiety, disrupted sleep, and gaming addiction. Social isolation during childhood can elevate cortisol levels and hinder cognitive development. For adults, loneliness increases the risk of serious physical health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Recent research highlights a connection between loneliness and inflammation, with specific proteins linking social isolation to changes in the immune system.

This episode sheds light on these troubling statistics and the underlying causes of loneliness while offering practical strategies to combat isolation and build meaningful social connections. Whether you’re seeking to understand this growing epidemic or looking for ways to support yourself or others, this conversation provides valuable insights and actionable solutions.