Spotting Family Dysfunction: Key Signs and What to Do About It

The source of dysfunction in a family may vary, but the impact on children is often the same: long-lasting wounds to self-esteem, trust, and healthy relationship skills. Dysfunctional families often fall into recognizable patterns: emotionally unavailable caregivers (cold, absent, or consumed by stress/addiction), addicts and enablers (where substance use dominates the household and children’s needs are overlooked), and high-conflict or abusive families (where violence, criticism, and fear replace love and safety). Such environments can lead to anxiety, depression, substance use, and unhealthy relationships in adulthood. Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward healing. Therapy, support groups, and learning intentional parenting strategies can help individuals break the cycle—proving that dysfunction does not have to define future generations.

Key Facts

  • Dysfunctional families can include emotional neglect, addiction, abuse, secrecy, or denial.
  • Children from these families often struggle with trust, boundaries, and self-worth.
  • Common signs include gaslighting, favoritism, scapegoating, and violation of privacy.
  • Healing is possible through therapy, boundary setting, and healthy coping skills.
  • Breaking the cycle requires awareness, intentional choices, and often professional support.

While no family is perfect, children raised in dysfunctional households often face deep emotional struggles. Yet, healing is possible: by seeking support, learning healthier ways to cope, and making intentional parenting decisions, we can stop the cycle from repeating and create families rooted in love, respect, and emotional stability.

If you are in need of crisis support contact the text line by texting MN to 741741

Refrence:https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-dysfunctional-family-5194681?hid=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&did=19060105-20250817&utm_source=verywellmind&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=verywellmind_newsletter&utm_content=081725&lctg=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&lr_input=c24f0f82324dd205a457b795567a3fcc0905f5476a12d769963bdac7cec1fc7a

What Is Confirmation Bias?

Confirmation bias is one of the most common — and often unnoticed — mental shortcuts that shapes how we think, make decisions, and interact with others. It’s the tendency to favor information that supports our existing beliefs while ignoring or downplaying evidence that challenges them. Whether it’s interpreting news, forming opinions about controversial issues, choosing friends, or making investments, confirmation bias subtly influences how we process the world. Psychologist Peter Wason’s 1960s experiments first illuminated how people naturally seek confirmatory information, and since then, research has shown this bias affects memory, attention, and interpretation. Key signs include ignoring contradictory evidence, remembering only supportive details, and seeking information from like-minded sources. It shows up in politics, relationships, and everyday decisions — and though it can offer a sense of comfort and confidence, it often hinders objectivity and critical thinking. The good news? With conscious effort, we can reduce its effects by staying open to opposing views, welcoming new information, and being aware of our own cognitive blind spots. In a world full of information, curiosity and humility are powerful tools to overcome bias.

Key Facts:

  • Confirmation bias causes us to seek and interpret information that supports our existing views.
  • It impacts attention, memory, and how we perceive information.
  • It shows up in personal decisions, politics, news consumption, and relationships.
  • There are different types: biased attention, biased interpretation, and biased memory.
  • Awareness, seeking diverse perspectives, and openness to new evidence can help mitigate it.

While we can’t fully eliminate confirmation bias — it’s wired into how our brains function — we can learn to recognize it and challenge its grip on our thinking. The more we practice intellectual humility, seek out opposing viewpoints, and stay open to new information, the closer we come to seeing the world as it really is — not just as we wish it to be.

Reference:https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-confirmation-bias-2795024?hid=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&did=18887911-20250805&utm_source=verywellmind&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=verywellmind_newsletter&utm_content=080525&lctg=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&lr_input=c24f0f82324dd205a457b795567a3fcc0905f5476a12d769963bdac7cec1fc7a

Rising Together: Breaking Barriers in BIPOC Communities

Breaking barriers in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities is about more than overcoming individual struggles—it’s about dismantling systemic inequities that have persisted for generations. From limited access to quality education and healthcare to underrepresentation in leadership and the arts, these challenges affect daily life and long-term opportunities. Yet despite these barriers, BIPOC communities continue to demonstrate resilience, innovation, and leadership, paving the way for meaningful change.

Representation is a key part of progress. Studies show that when BIPOC voices are included in leadership, policy, and cultural spaces, outcomes improve for entire communities. Health disparities, wage gaps, and limited access to resources remain pressing issues, but community-driven initiatives have proven to be some of the most effective solutions. Whether through grassroots organizations, cultural arts programs, or advocacy for equitable healthcare, BIPOC leaders are reshaping narratives and building stronger support systems for the future.

True change comes when we all recognize the importance of equity and take action. Supporting BIPOC-owned businesses, investing in education, amplifying diverse voices, and advocating for policy reform are steps everyone can take to help break down barriers. By standing together, we not only honor the strength and resilience of BIPOC communities but also build a society where every voice is valued and every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Jarrelle (jieao-杰遨) Barton

Can’t Focus? Same. These 5 Tips Will Cure Your Brain Fog Stat

After becoming a parent to twins, sleep became a luxury I could no longer afford—three non-consecutive hours was considered a win. Between midnight feedings, a preschooler’s tantrums, and a demanding full-time job, I was functioning on caffeine and sheer willpower. But what truly made life unmanageable was the relentless brain fog: that spacey, “buffering” feeling that made simple tasks feel like climbing a mountain. Brain fog isn’t just tiredness—it’s a cognitive haze marked by forgetfulness, slow thinking, poor focus, and feeling mentally “off.” According to psychiatrists like Dr. Simon Faynboym, causes range from sleep deprivation and poor diet to stress, illness, and hormonal changes. I once left my wallet at the bank and even mixed up my twins. Yep, it was that bad. But over time, I made small changes—better sleep hygiene, limiting caffeine, walking daily, and being kinder to myself. It didn’t happen overnight, but eventually, the fog began to lift.

Key Facts at a Glance:

  • Brain fog includes forgetfulness, sluggish thinking, and confusion.
  • Common causes include sleep deprivation, stress, dehydration, poor nutrition, hormonal shifts, and medical conditions.
  • Mental health issues like anxiety and depression often contribute.
  • Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, therapy, medical care, or supplements.
  • Prevention includes hydration, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep.

Top 5 Tips to Beat Brain Fog:

  1. Prioritize Sleep: Stick to a consistent bedtime routine and aim for 7–8 hours of quality rest each night.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle nearby and sip regularly—dehydration can dull your brain.
  3. Eat Smart: Fuel your brain with omega-3s, leafy greens, lean proteins, and complex carbs.
  4. Move Your Body: Even short walks or stretching breaks can boost clarity and circulation.
  5. Declutter Your Mind: Use to-do lists, practice mindfulness, or journal to stay grounded and focused.

If you’re stuck in a mental haze, know that you’re not alone—and that brain fog is more than just being scatterbrained. It’s a signal that your mind and body need support. Whether it’s tweaking your daily routine, reaching out to a doctor, or just giving yourself grace, there are ways forward. Be patient with yourself, take small steps, and trust that clarity can return—even after the stormiest seasons of life.

**Maintain a positive mindset-รักษาทัศนคติเชิงบวก**

Reference:https://www.verywellmind.com/brain-fog-8722143?hid=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&did=18623214-20250725&utm_source=verywellmind&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=verywellmind_newsletter&utm_content=072525&lctg=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&lr_input

Is Anxiety Genetic?

Anxiety often runs in families, but does that mean it’s in your DNA? While scientists haven’t pinpointed a single “anxiety gene,” research shows that having a close family member with an anxiety disorder increases your risk by two to six times. Twin studies and genetic research support a hereditary link, but genes are only one piece of the puzzle. Environmental factors—like trauma, parenting style, stress, and lifestyle—can all influence whether someone with a genetic predisposition actually develops anxiety. Additionally, anxiety may show up differently across generations. One person may struggle with social anxiety, while another experiences panic attacks or specific phobias. The good news? Treatment works. Therapy, medication, and healthy lifestyle choices can reduce anxiety’s impact—regardless of your family history.

Key Facts:

  • If you have a close family member with an anxiety disorder, your risk is 2–6 times higher.
  • Genes + environment = higher likelihood, not certainty.
  • Anxiety types vary: generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, phobias, etc.
  • Epigenetics shows trauma can impact genetic expression passed to future generations.
  • Treatment options include CBT, medication, lifestyle changes, and stress management.
  • Supporting children early can reduce long-term anxiety risks.


Anxiety may have roots in your genes, but it doesn’t define your destiny. With awareness, support, and treatment, individuals and families can navigate anxiety together and lead fulfilling lives. Understanding the genetic link can empower you—not limit you—to take action and seek support when needed.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/is-anxiety-genetic-5271575


 **Accept your imperfections – Chấp nhận những điểm không hoàn hảo của bản thân.**

Pomegranate And Health

Pomegranate, a ruby-red fruit known for its tart-sweet juice and jewel-like seeds, has long been valued in traditional medicine. Originating from the Middle East, the fruit has found its way into Mediterranean diets, Southeast Asian remedies, and Southwestern U.S. gardens. Traditionally, it has been used to treat a wide range of ailments—from sore throats to intestinal infections. Today, pomegranate juice and extracts are promoted for more modern health concerns, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. But how much of this is supported by science?

While early studies suggest that pomegranate juice may help reduce blood pressure and slightly lower blood glucose levels, research is still limited and inconclusive. The majority of studies have used pomegranate juice—not pills or powders—which makes it harder to compare across products. For cholesterol and other lipid levels, research has been inconsistent and doesn’t yet support any clear health claims. So while pomegranate might offer some benefits, it’s not a miracle cure—and more high-quality studies are needed to confirm its therapeutic potential.

Key Facts:

  • Pomegranate has traditional uses for sore throat, diarrhea, and intestinal parasites.
  • It’s currently promoted for heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
  • Some evidence supports its use in lowering blood pressure and blood glucose levels.
  • No strong evidence supports pomegranate’s effect on cholesterol levels.
  • Juice is generally safe; high doses of other parts of the plant may be harmful.
  • Always consult a healthcare provider before using herbal supplements. *
  • It’s currently promoted for heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

In terms of safety, drinking pomegranate juice is generally considered safe for most people, including during pregnancy. However, consuming large amounts of the root, stem, or peel may be harmful due to toxic compounds. Some individuals might also experience mild digestive symptoms or allergic reactions. It’s essential to speak with your healthcare provider before using any herbal supplement, especially if you’re on medication or pregnant. Remember, herbal products like pomegranate extracts are regulated differently than prescription drugs, and it’s up to manufacturers to ensure their safety and labeling.

Pomegranate is a delicious and potentially beneficial fruit, but it’s important to approach its health claims with a balanced perspective. As with all herbal products, use it wisely and in moderation—while keeping your doctor in the loop. With informed choices, you can enjoy the flavor and possible benefits of pomegranate while safeguarding your health.

Reference:https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/pomegranate

The Cultural Diversity of Healing: Meaning, Metaphor,and Mechanism

Healing is a universal human concern, yet the ways in which we heal vary immensely across cultures. Anthropologists have documented diverse systems of healing—from village shamans and herbalists to acupuncture, energy medicine, and spiritual rituals—each offering its own theory of illness, its own patient-healer roles, and its own symbolic actions for recovery. What unites these systems is a shared structure: a defined explanation of affliction, a trusted healer, specific healing rituals, and expectations of wellness. In a world shaped by migration, digital communication, and cross-cultural interaction, these practices are no longer confined to their origins. Today’s clinicians must navigate a kaleidoscope of healing beliefs—not only among immigrants or indigenous populations, but within the broader public, where 20–40% of adults in countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia regularly use complementary and alternative medicine.


At the heart of any healing practice lies the question: Does it work? But what counts as “working” is itself a culturally shaped idea. Recovery might mean symptom relief, spiritual peace, improved family dynamics, or validation of a community’s worldview. Healing often involves metaphors, transformations, and rituals—practices that may not fit neatly within biomedical definitions of effectiveness. With the global spread and commercialization of traditional healing methods, we face new ethical and practical challenges. Healers once held accountable by their communities now operate in marketplaces, where regulatory oversight may be lacking and cultural meaning can be diluted. As traditions hybridize and shift, clinicians and patients alike must grapple with what healing means in a fragmented, multicultural world.


Healing is never just physical—it is social, psychological, moral, and political. As biomedicine increasingly integrates into global health systems, its limitations in addressing the full human experience become clearer. Cultural healing practices often fill those gaps, offering hope, connection, and empowerment where clinical language falls short. Understanding these practices—not only how they work, but why they matter—helps clinicians meet the deeper needs of their patients. Disentangling cultural meanings from physiological mechanisms may help us build a more compassionate, evidence-informed model of care that values pluralism over uniformity.

Reference:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3621226/

What to Do When You Want to Disappear

There are moments when life feels so overwhelming that the thought “I want to disappear” seems like the only escape. Whether it’s the crushing weight of daily obligations, relationship strain, or simply the grind of emotional exhaustion, this desire isn’t uncommon—and it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you. Wanting to vanish is often your mind’s way of signaling that something deeper needs attention. According to mental health counselor Rachel Gersten, this feeling can stem from shame, burnout, or emotional overload. Instead of suppressing the urge, try to observe it. What’s happening when the thought arises? Are you exhausted at work? Feeling isolated? Naming the emotion—like “shame wants me to disappear”—can shift your relationship with it. Techniques like narrative therapy, opposite action (from DBT), mindfulness, and simply taking a break can help disrupt the pattern. If the feeling becomes persistent, it’s time to seek support.

Key Facts:

  • The urge to disappear often signals emotional distress, not necessarily depression or suicidality.
  • Shame is a common underlying emotion, prompting withdrawal.
  • “Opposite action” encourages doing the reverse of what the emotion suggests—such as reaching out instead of isolating.
  • Narrative therapy helps reframe thoughts by externalizing them (e.g., “fear wants me to disappear”).
  • Even small breaks can restore clarity—nature, rest, or a microbreak from work can make a big difference.
  • If the thought is recurring, speaking to a therapist can help identify root causes and next steps.

Feeling like you want to disappear isn’t something to fear—it’s something to explore. It’s a sign that your emotional dashboard is lighting up, urging you to slow down, check in, and reconnect with what you need. Whether that’s support, space, or change, you deserve the tools and care to find your way through. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to disappear to find peace.

Reference:https://www.verywellmind.com/what-to-do-when-you-want-to-disappear-5204214?hid=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&did=17807380-20250526&utm_source=verywellmind&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=verywellmind_newsletter&utm_content=052625&lctg=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&lr_input=c24f0f82324dd205a457b795567a3fcc0905f5476a12d769963bdac7cec1fc7a

26 Quotes About Letting Go

When life feels overwhelming or your heart is burdened with grief, a well-chosen inspirational quote can act as a powerful grounding force. Though often overlooked, quotes have the ability to gently interrupt toxic thought spirals and offer perspective during life’s most difficult moments. Mental health professionals like Jessi Gholami, LCSW, emphasize that these are not empty slogans, but concentrated moments of clarity that offer comfort, affirmation, and even healing. Dr. Donna Novak adds that these quotes can reroute the brain’s autopilot thinking patterns—especially helpful for neurodiverse individuals like those with ADHD or autism. Whether meditating, journaling, or decorating your space, integrating letting-go quotes into your daily routine can support emotional release and growth.


Key Facts:

  • Letting-go quotes support emotional processing, surrender, and self-compassion
  • Great for breaking negative thought loops
  • Effective for neurodiverse folks (ADHD, autism)
  • Can be used in meditation, mindfulness, journaling, and home decor
  • Not a substitute for therapy, but a helpful self-care tool


Healing doesn’t always come from grand gestures—it often begins with small, repeated reminders that you are not alone. A quote scribbled on your mirror, whispered in meditation, or tucked into a journal can become your quiet anthem of resilience. And when words aren’t enough, remember that seeking professional support is a sign of strength, not surrender.


English: Mental health is very important.
Japanese: メンタルヘルスはとても重要です。

Reference:https://www.verywellmind.com/quotes-about-letting-go-8678775?hid=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&did=17797308-20250521&utm_source=verywellmind&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=verywellmind_newsletter&utm_content=052125&lctg=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&lr_input=c24f0f82324dd205a457b795567a3fcc0905f5476a12d769963bdac7cec1fc7a

What to Say to Someone Who Is Depressed

When someone we love is struggling with depression, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to say—but silence or distance can unintentionally deepen their pain. Offering gentle words like “I care” or “I’m here for you” may seem small, but to someone feeling isolated, they are lifelines. Empathy doesn’t require perfect phrases—just honest presence. Listening without judgment, checking in regularly, or offering specific support like help with chores or a ride to therapy can go a long way. Remind them that they matter, that they are not weak, and that healing is possible. If you’re ever concerned about suicidal thoughts, seek immediate help. You don’t need all the answers—just being there could be enough.

Key Facts:

  • Saying something is often better than saying nothing at all.
  • Depression can cause withdrawal—keep reaching out.
  • Tangible support (rides, errands, meals) is meaningful.
  • Don’t try to “fix” them—just listen.
  • Encourage professional help, but without pressure.
  • Be aware of suicide warning signs and take them seriously.
  • Call or text 988 if someone is in crisis.


Compassion is more powerful than perfection. If you show up with patience and empathy, you remind your loved one they are not alone—and that there is hope. Keep the conversation going, keep listening, and never underestimate the strength of simply being present.

Reference:https://www.verywellmind.com/what-to-say-when-someone-is-depressed-1067474?hid=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&did=17726325-20250518&utm_source=verywellmind&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=verywellmind_newsletter&utm_content=051825&lctg=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&lr_input=c24f0f82324dd205a457b795567a3fcc0905f5476a12d769963bdac7cec1fc7a