Mentally Stronger with Therapist Amy Morin

Whether you're nervous about a business meeting or you're overwhelmed and aren't sure why, it's important to have strategies to calm your nervous system at a moment's notice.Liz Kelly is a therapist and she wrote a book called, This Book Is Cheaper Than Therapy. She offers actionable strategies for improving mental health and psychological well-being. Some of the things we talk about are: The mental health tools to keep on-hand when therapy isn't available How stress manifests physically and what to do to calm your body Practical self-help techniques that calm the nervous system How to build resilience and reduce emotional reactivity over time Why alcohol won't calm your nervous system The true self-care activities that improve long-term well-being Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium — Get weekly bonus episodes, monthly bonus content, and cool gifts (like signed books)!Links & ResourcesThis Book Is Cheaper Than TherapyFollow Liz on Instagram - @real.life.mental.wellnessAmy Cuddy's TED talkConnect with the ShowBuy Amy's books on mental strengthConnect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthorEmail the show — Podcast@AmyMorinLCSW.comOrder 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't DoOffers From Our SponsorsBetterHelp — Go to BetterHelp.com/MENTALLYSTRONG today to get 10% off your first month of therapy.AirDoctor — Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code STRONGER to receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!ZocDoc — Find a doctor or therapist today by downloading the app for free at ZocDoc.com/strongerButcherBox — Go to Butcherbox.com/stronger and use code stronger at checkout and enjoy your choice of bone-in chicken thighs, top sirloins, or salmon in every box for an entire year, plus $30 off!Jenni Kayne — Find your forever pieces @jennikayne and get 15% off with promo code STRONGER15 at Jennikayne.com/STRONGER15 #jennikaynepartnerAqua Tru — Receive 20% OFF any AquaTru water purifier when you go to AquaTru.com and use promo code STRONGER at checkout!GhostBed — Join the 60,000 happy customers that have found their perfect mattress with GhostBed. Check out GhostBed.com/stronger and use code STRONGER at checkout for 50% off your order today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anxiety can be tricky, but surprising strategies can help tackle it effectively. Discover how embracing uncertainty can empower you. Learn to schedule your worries for better control over anxious thoughts. Conquer specific fears with gradual exposure. Trusting your own opinions can foster confidence. Plus, overcoming perfectionism can reduce stress. These counterintuitive approaches are rooted in science and promise to transform your experience with anxiety.

In this episode, guest Kasley Killam, a social scientist and author of *The Art and Science of Connection*, delves into the significance of social health and its impact on overall well-being. She discusses the importance of establishing and enhancing connections, revealing strategies tailored to different social styles. Kasley offers practical tips for overcoming obstacles to adult friendships and nurturing connections amidst busy lives, highlighting that even small gestures can significantly improve one's social landscape.

Struggling to fall asleep? Discover science-backed strategies to quiet your racing mind. Learn how lifestyle changes and a calming bedtime routine can transform your sleep quality. Explore effective techniques like gratitude journaling and aromatherapy to unwind. Uncover actionable solutions for those late-night worries and find out what habits might be keeping you awake. This engaging discussion equips you with the tools needed to reclaim restful nights and improve your overall well-being.

Dr. Kristin Neff, a psychology professor and leading expert in self-compassion, dives into the heart of burnout and emotional exhaustion. She explains why professionals and caregivers are particularly vulnerable and highlights the health implications of burnout. Dr. Neff emphasizes the transformative power of self-compassion in countering overwhelming stress and offers practical strategies for emotional self-care. She advocates for a kinder mindset towards oneself, sharing how gratitude and community support can significantly enhance well-being.

Discover the fascinating paradoxes of mental strength that challenge conventional beliefs. Embrace the power of quitting and the necessity of vulnerability for true resilience. Explore how a balance of optimism and realism can enhance your mental health. Learn that seeking help fosters independence, and that accepting anxiety can lead to growth. Delve into strategies for regaining peace and redefining your relationship with stress and failure for a more fulfilling life.

Dr. Jamil Zaki, a psychologist and professor at Stanford, shares his insights on rising cynicism and its effects on our well-being. He explores the paradox of human kindness, revealing that despite prevalent negativity, people are becoming more trustworthy. Zaki discusses strategies to cultivate a positive view of others, emphasizing empathy and self-awareness. He also highlights the need to navigate the overwhelming negativity amplified by media, proposing a hopeful skeptic mindset that empowers personal connections and transforms our outlook on humanity.

Can spending money lead to happiness? Absolutely, but it depends on how you spend it! Discover seven key areas that can boost your happiness, like investing in experiences and relationships. Learn about the importance of self-care, kindness, and embracing nature for overall well-being. The discussion also unpacks common spending pitfalls that may lead to regret. By prioritizing meaningful purchases, you can transform your financial habits and enhance your long-term satisfaction in life.

Dr. James Doty, a professor of neurosurgery at Stanford and best-selling author, discusses the real science behind manifesting. He debunks misconceptions, emphasizing that true manifesting is about setting intentions and taking actionable steps rather than attracting material wealth. The conversation highlights the importance of compassion, service, and overcoming negative thoughts for a fulfilling life. Doty also shares practical strategies for intentional living, showcasing how a positive mindset and focusing on helping others can lead to lasting change.

Discover how a simple journaling exercise can rewire your brain in just four days. The power of expressive writing offers remarkable mental health benefits, particularly for those managing depression or PTSD. Learn about neuroplasticity and how a structured writing approach can lead to resilience and self-discovery. Explore the importance of starting with gentle topics to ease emotional processing and understand what to realistically expect from your journaling journey.