Some 7.5 million people in the US have psoriasis, but white people are diagnosed twice as much as people of color. Could skin tone be a barrier to diagnosis -- and treatment? Alisha Bridges discusses the emotional impact of life with this chronic condition, as well as barriers to treatment she encountered. We also talk to Junko Takeshita, MD, PhD, a researcher at Penn Medicine who's dedicated her career to uncovering  -- and dismantling -- healthcare disparities related to skin diseases.

In the U.S., Black women are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Why is this, and what would help save their lives? We speak with Tonya Lewis Lee, co-director and co-producer of the new Hulu documentary Aftershock, about these issues, the women lost to maternal mortality, and their families that are forever changed.  Related: How to Advocate for Yourself as a Pregnant Woman of Color

What happens in the brain when we experience addiction? Do some people just have more of an addictive personality than others? We talk with Bret S. Stetka, MD, Medscape's Neurology and Psychiatry editorial director, about different chemical messengers, neurotransmitter networks, our brains' complex reward systems, and the role anticipation plays in addiction.   WebMD is saddened to share that our colleague and guest in this episode, Bret S. Stetka, MD, Medscape editorial director for psychiatry and neurology, died shortly after this episode aired. In addition to his book, A History of the Human Brain, Bret was a frequent contributor to Scientific American and NPR. He will be missed.

Roughly 90% of all skin cancers are a direct result of ultraviolet light exposure. So, what are the best sun protection methods? And does SPF matter? Board-certified dermatologist Laurel Naversen Geraghty, MD, talks to us about what UVA, UVB, and broad spectrum means, the ideal SPF number, and breaks down the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen. Listen in to find out the best ways to protect your skin. Related Links:  Dr. Geraghty's posts on WebMD's Healthy Skin blog American Academy of Dermatology Skin Cancer Foundation

How can we help our kids deal with the stress of everyday life? Hansa Bhargava, MD, pediatrician and chief medical officer at Medscape Education, introduces us to cognitively-based compassion training (CBCT). This practice can bring their focus back to the present moment, she says, and help them build a healthy level of resilience along the way.

More and more women are looking into oocyte cryopreservation -- or egg freezing -- to take control of their fertility. James Grifo, MD, PhD, director of the NYU Langone Fertility Center and the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, talks about the process and its impacts on physical and mental health. Also, listen in on Rachel Lehmann-Haupt’s fertility story, author of In Her Own Sweet Time: Egg Freezing and the New Frontiers of Family. Find more information on guests at fertilityny.org and lehmannhaupt.com.

How does stress affect our overall well being? And how can mindfulness reduce the effects of stress on our nervous system? Clinical psychologist Seth J. Gillihan, PhD, who specializes in mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, helps us understand the practical benefits of mindfulness – like breath – and remembering to honor ourselves through all phases of our mindfulness journey.

Alzheimer's affects millions of Americans -- but it isn't a normal part of aging. Lisa Marshall saw every moment of her father's descent into the depths of dementia. She wrote about it in “The End of Alzheimer’s" and tells us about it in this episode. Also, listen in as Drs. Ayesha and Dean Sherzai explain what helps prevent dementia, based on research. Small things can make a big difference. Find more info about them at teamsherzai.com

Your gut is home to an ecosystem of bacteria, viruses and fungi called the gut microbiome. That may sound bad, but it's really good for your overall health. When it's in balance, you feel great. But when something goes wrong, it rocks your world. Robynne Chutkan, MD, author of The Microbiome Solution, talks about how your digestive system works and why keeping it in good running order is one of the most important things you can do for your health.

Today, mental health struggles impact us more than ever. Many of us turn to social media for help and information. Clinical psychologist Seth J. Gillihan, PhD, who specializes in mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, talks about the pros and cons of using social media, the harmful effects of consuming the wrong content, and the power of community.