Set in mid 1800s Saint Petersburg, the nameless narrator of Fyodor Dostoevsky's White Nights falls in love with a woman he barely knows. The short story delves into longing, and limerence. The protagonist stumbles upon a crying woman who is being harassed by a drunk man. After he saves her, they have a conversation, and […]
Many individuals in helping roles, whether in their professional career or personal lives, often find themselves in a constant state of caring for and supporting others. This support can take on many forms like managing complex health issues, serving as a caregiver, providing financial assistance, or offering emotional support during times of deep distress or […]
The World Health Organization estimates that schizophrenia affects around 24 million people, or roughly 1 in 300 individuals worldwide. This severe mental illness not only disrupts the lives of those affected but also carries significant social and economic burdens. Even more concerning, individuals with schizophrenia have an average life expectancy 15-20 years shorter than the […]
Released in 1979 by Joy Division, She’s Lost Control draws from the tragic true story of a young woman with epilepsy who died during a seizure, someone lead singer Ian Curtis had once worked with. The haunting lyrics take on an even deeper resonance considering Curtis himself was later diagnosed with the same condition. Set […]
Frida Kahlo’s Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird (1940) is a deeply personal reflection on pain, resilience, and identity. Painted after her divorce from Diego Rivera and the end of her relationship with photographer Nickolas Muray, the work captures a moment of emotional rupture. But like many of Kahlo’s self-portraits, it is also a way […]
This poem, "A Thank You Letter to My Ex," is a powerful testament to resilience and self-reclamation after a potentially traumatic relationship. It's a nuanced exploration of gratitude born from pain and a declaration of strength found in the aftermath of emotional hardship. The speaker doesn't offer a conventional thank you but, instead, a […]
In today’s episode, Contributing Writer Divya Bhupal speaks with Esther Goldstein, a Licensed Clinical Social worker who specializes in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and relationship issues and is a big proponent of internal family systems (IFS) therapy. With her we dive into what IFS therapy is and how it can help individuals navigate their lives and […]
My Skinny Sister, a Swedish film, delicately traces the relationship between two sisters Katja and Stella. Both sisters, bound by a shared dream of becoming the perfect figure skater. Drawn to the elegance and discipline of the sport, Stella idolizes her older sister, believing Katja’s success is the result of sheer hard work and determination. […]
Singer and songwriter Yungblud released an emotional song in 2024 titled “Breakdown.” which is a raw expression of the emotional chaos that often accompanies depression and anxiety. With lyrics that shift between defiance and despair, the song explores what it means to unravel in the public eye while trying to maintain a sense of identity […]
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 720,000 people die by suicide each year, and it remains the third leading cause of death for 15 to 29 year olds. Many children are left to grieve the loss of a parent to suicide, a deeply painful experience that often leads to mental health struggles […]