Mental Health

Scream into a pillow, punch a punching bag, vent. All these methods to "get anger out" could actually be making us angrier. Researchers Doug Gentile and Brad Bushman share their research into this common misconception and effective methods for reducing anger. Then, one Iowan believes reducing light pollution in Iowa could boost tourism. James Bruton from the Dark Sky Iowa Initiative shares the environment and economic benefits of a dark sky.

Farmers face a number of challenges these days, from higher input costs to fewer available resources. The stress of it all can take a toll, not only on their livelihood, but on their mental well-being.

Death is a natural part of life, but our society struggles to support those who are grieving. This hour, host Charity Nebbe speaks with grief counselor Lynette Jordan, as well as mother and son Brianna and Grayson Wills about how they developed an open dialogue of grief in the seven years since the death of Grayson's twin brother, Calder. Later we hear from CL Lepley, who has become an expert in supporting those who are grieving after experiencing many difficult losses in their life since the age of five. (This show was originally produced on Nov. 13, 2024.)

Social media has rapidly become an unavoidable part of how people socialize, communicate and spend their free time. Experts Jonathan Platt, Gerta Bardhoshi, Kostadin Kushley and Rachel McLaren unpack the latest research on how social media affects teens' lives and mental health. We also explore how to break out of doomscrolling and realistic ways to limit screentime.

Paul Lasley has repaired and donated 18 used violins in the last year for students in need. Also in this episode, ISU psychology professor Doug Gentile shares how acts of kindness towards others can help us take better care of ourselves, too.

More Iowans are surviving cancer due to advancements in treatments and screenings, but up to a third of survivors experience mental health challenges.

A new development theory out of Iowa State University reshapes how experts understand the impact of trauma and adverse childhood experiences on our memories and how those memories can change over time.

Reggie's Sleepout helps participants understand what it means to be without shelter on a cold fall night. Later in the show, remembering the man behind University of Northern Iowa's legendary "marathon class."

Margalea Warner, who has lived with schizophrenia for more than four decades, discusses her about her new memoir. Then, we’ll talk with Iowa native and soprano opera singer Jessica Faselt.

Author Florence Williams discusses the mental health benefits of nature and climate scientist Chris Gloninger talks about starting constructive conversations on climate change.