Studies say that 15-20% of teens have self-harmed at some point. That could mean 4 or 5 out of a classroom full of 25 kids. (Ma et al., 2023). For that we have Self-Harm Awareness Month to talk about why it’s important to have this conversation, what’s behind it and what can we do to make a difference.

The modern political climate is more than just a governance issue, it is a mental health crisis. No matter which country they’re a citizen of, people worldwide are experiencing heightened levels of anxiety, stress, and emotional exhaustion due to the relentless cycle of political instability, misinformation, and systemic failures. Regardless of age, socioeconomic status, or ideology, people feel the weight of a system that seems increasingly indifferent to their well-being.

What is fear of missing out? I always associated that term with the bubbling feeling inside my chest when I started feeling that everyone BUT me was out there having the time of their lives. In the middle of the night, scrolling through Instagram, the feelings of being “the only one left out” creeps in my mind and my body. “Fear of missing out” or in other terms FOMO is a relatively new term that was first introduced in 2004. It is used to describe a phenomenon related to social networking sites usage.

We all see those picture-perfect holiday moments on social media—the sparkling lights, the perfect meals, the beaming families. It’s easy to feel like you should be doing more, that your holiday should look like that too. But here’s the truth: chasing perfection is exhausting and—to be honest—unnecessary. When I think about it, does anyone actually remember the teeny tiny details of a perfectly set table, or do they remember the laughter and connection? Imperfection is part of what makes the moments we have memorable. Sometimes, the burnt cookies or the slightly crooked tree end up being the most cherished stories

At FRANK BERLIN, we’re all about creating spaces where honest conversations about mental health can thrive. Sharing stories is such a powerful way to connect and break down stigmas. That’s why we’re excited to share this interview with Elena Solonnikov, a poet and writer with a knack for turning her thoughts and experiences into something deeply relatable and meaningful.

Uncertainty can feel overwhelming, leaving us questioning the future and doubting ourselves. A study by the American Psychological Association reveals that uncertainty triggers stress responses in the brain similar to physical threats, making us crave control and stability. But life doesn’t come with a manual, and often, our plans are subject to forces beyond our control.