Posts in category: Dating Tips, Guide and Advice

During times of inflation and economic hardship, many struggle with the cost of dating. Infla-dating is a new popular form of dating in which couples choose to go out on cheap dates as the cost of living rises.

Young couples as well as older couples can benefit from feeling less pressured financially. It’s reassuring to know that there are ways to have fun times together and not break the bank.

This article explores why dating on the cheap is popular now, cheap dating ideas in your town and at home, and the age-old debate of who should pay for first dates.

Why Is Dating on the Cheap Popular Now?

It gets expensive picking up the tab for multiple dates at pricey restaurants while you’re a bit tight financially. And payments to keep looking attractive and for Uber rides home also add up. Factor in the added financial pressure dating creates for single parents and older people on a fixed income and no wonder people seek ways to minimize costs while dating.

Here are common reasons people are opting for cheap dates:

• Inflation has taken a toll on their monthly budget.
• They’re working part-time or have gig work.
• They’re working full-time, but their bills have increased.
• They have higher and unexpected housing costs.
• They’re currently unemployed.
• They’re on a budget.
• They’ve lost money in the stock market, on crypto, or in other ways.
• They’re saving for a household appliance, tuition for a family member, or a special event.

It’s good to be vigilant about what you spend on dates. And the good news is dating doesn’t have to go on hold or be a problem for you due to limited finances.

Fun, Cheap Date Ideas You Can Do in Your Town

1. Have a picnic on the beach
2. Discover a new food truck in a funky neighborhood.
3. Hike with your pets around a lake.
4. Enjoy free concerts in your local park.
5. Take the elevator to the tallest building in your city and share the best view.
6. Explore museums on their free admission days.
7. Volunteer at an animal shelter, school or food pantry.
8. Take a free or inexpensive class together.
9. Window shop or go antiquing.
10. Attend street fairs and block parties.
11. Take a train, trolley or ferry someplace and appreciate a new perspective.
12. Slow down by fishing in a nearby river or stream.
13. Fly a kite in a field.
14. Attend an author reading at a bookstore.
15. Hit up a dive bar.
16. Take a scenic or historic walking tour.
17. Spend Sunday at a farmer’s market.
18. Bike ride at sunset.

Inexpensive date ideas for when you want to stay in

1. Learn a TikTok dance together.
2. Play a video game, chess, Scrabble or cards.
3. Make art. Paint a mural on your garage or tackle a DIY project.
4. Cook dinner together.
5. Borrow a friend’s karaoke machine and have a sing off.
6. Share poems, song lyrics or a book you like. Read aloud to your date.
7. Have a spa night and pamper each other.
8. Stargaze. Find a telescope or library book about constellations.
9. Plant a garden.
10. 9 Plan a scavenger hunt.
11. Go through family photo albums.
12. Write love letters to each other.
13. Have desserts in bed.

Who Should Pay For First Dates?

The dating site Elite Singles tapped their database to survey over 300,000 American singles about who they thought should pay for a first date. Findings showed 63% of men thought they should pay and 46% of women thought men should pay.

But there is no consensus by psychologists or dating experts on who should pay on a first date. Traditional etiquette says the person who extends the invitation should pay, others say for heterosexual relationships the man should pay on the first date, still others say the first date should be split between the two parties.

Who should pay on subsequent dates is not clear either. Some say the bill should be split while others say the person who makes more money should pay. Ultimately, it depends on the couple, and if the person who makes more money wants to pay, that’s fine. However, generosity feels good too so there is nothing wrong with alternating who pays from time to time.

The Impact of Financial Conflicts

Worries about money are bad enough if you’re alone. It’s compounded when you’re in a relationship. Conflicts about finances are a top source of friction in romantic relationships.

One study’s findings show that most couples’ fights about money deal with concerns about fairness and perceived responsibility, and the disagreement over minor purchases.

Not only is it troublesome in relationships, but financial stress can adversely affect your mental health. Scientists found that income loss and financial strain were uniquely associated with depressive symptoms and the exacerbation of these symptoms over time.

In abusive type situations, for example, if a partner is hiding purchases or assets or committing financial abuse by controlling their partner’s ability to acquire, use or maintain financial resources, the results can be even further anxiety-inducing and stressful for the victimized partner.

Talking to Your Partner about Money

Don’t underestimate the power of communication, even during times of financial strain. Though the subject matter may be difficult, research shows that couples who spend a larger part of their time together talking reported greater satisfaction, perceived more positive qualities in their relationships, and felt closer to their partners.

California-based Amy Keller, PsyD and MFT, says,  “If you deal with things with honesty, maturity and vulnerability, you can discuss almost any difficult money matter.”

Dr. Amy, as she is known, related a personal anecdote. “When my husband and I first started dating, we had a regular Wednesday night salsa dancing date. One night he told me he couldn’t make it. I called him back asking if something had come up or if there was anything that we needed to talk about. To my great surprise, he told me he had not been paid for a big job, had no money to take me out on a date and was embarrassed to tell me.

That night we created a simple picnic in the park from items we already had in our refrigerators. We turned on music and had our own salsa also under the stars. Looking back, that was one of the most romantic and magical dates we had ever had! 

That simple confession reinforced my trust in him and like the Grinch’s heart, mine grew three sizes that day. I knew intuitively that I’d always be able to trust him when it came to discussing matters of money and of the heart.”

It’s that time of the month again. You find yourself eating an extra couple of slices of pizza and finishing every french fry in sight. Then you’re reaching for that bag of chips and a bar of chocolate for comfort. If this sounds like you, then you’re not alone in feeling this way because it’s very common.

This article dives into the basics of a menstrual cycle, the hormones that affect your appetite, and some tips to help manage your hunger pangs during your period.

What Is the Menstrual Cycle?

The menstrual cycle is a series of natural hormonal and physiological changes that the female reproductive system goes through to support a pregnancy.

It starts on the first day of a female’s period (menstruation) and ends on the day before their next period. On average, a menstrual cycle lasts 28 days; however, a normal range is between 21 and 40 days.

After your period, between days 8 and 28 of your cycle, your uterus thickens up as it prepares for embryo (a fertilized egg) implantation. For three weeks, your uterus slowly builds a lining that is full of blood vessels and tissue that is approximately 11 mm thick.

Around day 14 of your cycle, your ovaries release an egg that moves down the fallopian tubes. If the egg does not get fertilized and implantation does not occur, it will disintegrate in the body. The endometrium (uterine lining) sheds and is released through the vagina as a period (this is when you’ll notice blood).

It takes about 10 to 16 days for an egg to be released from the ovaries to the beginning of menstruation.

The Hormones That Affect Your Appetite

Hormones control the various changes that occur in the body during the menstrual cycle. Changes in the levels of these hormones can affect how hungry you feel.

Estrogen

In the days leading up to your period, estrogen starts to decline. Estrogen is a hormone that can help boost your mood and suppresses your appetite. A drop in estrogen can increase your hunger cravings. 

Progesterone

During this time, your progesterone levels also drop but it remains the dominant hormone in your body. Progesterone is responsible for stimulating your appetite, causing you to feel extra hungry.

Cortisol

Cortisol, the stress hormone, can also affect your appetite. A meta-analysis published in 2020 showed that women in the follicular phase had higher cortisol levels than women in the luteal phase.

The follicular phase is day 1–14 of your menstrual cycle. It begins on the first day of your period and ends in ovulation when the egg is released from the ovary. A high cortisol level in the body is linked to an increase in appetite, overeating, and a desire to consume high-fat, sugary “comfort foods.”

How to Manage Your Hunger When You’re On Your Period

The most important thing to remember is to listen to your body and take care of it during this time.

Here are some tips to help manage your hunger pangs during your period:

• Maintain a well-balanced diet: Ensure you consume lots of lean protein, vegetables, fruits and whole grains during the month. Minimize your intake of processed food, saturated fats, caffeine, salt and alcohol. There is a direct link between the food you eat and the hormones that are produced and released in your body. There is also a direct link between the food you eat and the way you feel. A diet that is full of nutrient-dense foods can help balance hormones and keep those hunger pangs at bay.
• Exercise regularly: From improving mental health to decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers, the benefits of exercise are pretty well known. A study that looked at the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on eating habits showed that physical activity was associated with healthier food decisions. Specifically, those who were more active tended to eat less fried foods and sweets. Regular movement can help a lot with your mood during this time.
• Indulge slowly and in moderation: Although you may feel like inhaling an entire bag of chips, it’s probably not the best for your well-being. Instead, grab a small bowl, fill it with chips, close the bag, put it back, and walk away. Savor each chip and mindfully appreciate the textures and flavors. Then assess whether you want more. Sometimes, taking the time to enjoy a treat can help satisfy the cravings without overeating or going beyond what our stomachs can handle.
• Choose alternative healthy snacks: Ice cream or donuts may seem like the perfect snack after dinner. However, that big spike in your blood sugar levels and the eventual crash will leave you feeling more irritated and upset. Instead, opt for healthier snacks that don’t cause your blood sugar levels to go on a rollercoaster ride. Some examples include low-fat yogurt, cheese, nuts, fruit, veggies and hummus, and whole-grain toast with peanut butter.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water. People often confuse signs of dehydration for hunger. That’s because the feelings of thirst are too subtle compared to those of hunger. So before grabbing that muffin, try drinking a tall glass of water and see if that helps with your appetite.
• Detach morality from your food choices: Don’t let your food choices make you feel guilty or bad about yourself. If cookies or a bowl of mac and cheese are what give you comfort during this time of the month, allow yourself to have that treat. Your uterus is shedding and it is a tough and unpleasant experience. For some, it can be painful and debilitating. Listen to your body, rest, enjoy your favorite foods and take care of it however you see fit.

Dealing with someone who has passive-aggressive behaviors—a “passive-aggressive bully”—can be complicated. However, you can take some steps to protect yourself.

Recognize That You Did Nothing Wrong

It’s not uncommon for the recipient of passive-aggressive behaviors to feel that they are a bad person or deserving of poor treatment, says Sabrina Romanoff, PsyD, a clinical psychologist who practices in New York City.

“Many rationalize their mistreatment by believing that they somehow did something worthy of the behavior they are receiving,” says Romanoff, “which enables a complacency to continue to accept it.”

Over time, this can have many negative effects, including eroded self-esteem, reduced productivity, and damaged relationships. One of the first steps you can take when dealing with a person who is passive-aggressive is to recognize that you don’t deserve their poor treatment.

Set Boundaries

“To overcome passive-aggressive bullying, it is important to set boundaries when you’re feeling violated,” says Romanoff. “Folks who get targeted often have difficulty with being assertive and affirmative, which is a similar challenge for those who resort to passive-aggressive bullying – creating a vicious cycle.”

Setting boundaries can help stop this cycle. How? “These are often subtle moments,” says Romanoff, “like when someone inquires too deeply, you can pause and think about how you want to respond instead of allowing them to violate your boundaries.”

Address the Behaviors

Passive-aggressiveness is characterized by a desire to avoid discussing issues that may be bothering the person. Addressing their behaviors is one way to bring these issues more into the open. It also establishes your willingness to hold the person accountable, which helps stop the passive-aggressive cycle.

Confronting a person with passive-aggressive behaviors at work, school, or home requires honesty. Let them know how their behaviors affect you. Be clear on how they make you feel.

When confronted, the person may make inappropriate remarks and mumble under their breath. Don’t let their hostility and inappropriate actions keep you from addressing their behaviors. Calling the behavior out with no apologies is essential.

Be Direct

When dealing with someone who is passive-aggressive, be assertive and clear about your expectations. This helps establish your boundaries. It also reduces the risk of miscommunication about what you want or need in the relationship.

Another benefit of directness is that it holds the person accountable for their actions. It tells them you recognize what they’re doing and you’re not going to allow it when interacting with them.

Control Your Response

Focus on staying calm. Keep your voice neutral and hold your emotions in check. The less you react to a person’s passive-aggressive actions, the less control they have over you.

Remind yourself that while you cannot keep someone who is passive-aggressive from slamming doors or pouting, you can control your response. Choose to respond in a healthy way to their unhealthy behaviors to help keep it from being a toxic relationship.

Recognize You Cannot Change Them

While confronting passive-aggressive behaviors is a positive first step, there is no guarantee that the person will accept what you are saying. There is also no guarantee that they will decide to change, becoming more open about their emotions when they are feeling angry.

Instead of concentrating on everything they need to do to stop being passive-aggressive, focus on what you can do to improve the situation. Use your energies on actions such as setting boundaries or communicating honestly about how their actions affect you.

Avoid Getting Offended

Remember that passive-aggressive anger stems from the person’s experiences and background and, therefore, is not your responsibility. If you allow yourself to get offended, it becomes more difficult to keep your composure.

You do not have to appease someone who is passive-aggressive. Stick to what you know is right regardless of any emotional abuse they may inflict.

Be Empathetic

Being compassionate and empathetic toward a difficult person can be challenging but very effective. Say something like: “It seems like you’re frustrated by what happened at practice yesterday. That must be difficult.”

Remember, people who are passive-aggressive often feel misunderstood. Exploring where they’re coming from can go a long way in helping you cope with their behaviors.

Common Passive-Aggressive Behaviors

Spotting and dealing with passive-aggressive bullies can be hard, but it can important for your well being. Here are a few telltale behaviors typical of someone with passive-aggressive tendencies.

Denying the Truth

People who are passive-aggressive often deny that they’re hurt, angry, or offended. They don’t say what they are really thinking, which can confuse people on the receiving end of their behaviors—particularly when they lash out in subtle, unexpected, puzzling ways.

In some cases, the person who is passive-aggressive may not even realize that they are angry or feeling resentful because their feelings have been repressed or they have poor self-awareness. This can lead them to complain about being misunderstood or victimized.

Shifting Blame

Someone with passive-aggressiveness rarely takes responsibility for their actions. They cannot accept that they are at fault. If something happens, it must be the fault of someone or something else. They engage in minimization and victim-blaming on a regular basis.

Communicating Poorly or Ambiguously

Another common passive-aggressive behavior is saying “yes” when they feel “no”—for example when asked to do something they don’t want to do. They resent being asked, but they hide this emotion and do the task anyway. To relieve some of the resulting resentment, they may give the person who made the request the silent treatment, talk about the person, or even spread gossip. Or, they simply might not follow through with the request.

People who behave in a passive-aggressive way also can be sarcastic, even when sarcasm is inappropriate. When confronted, they might pass it off as a joke, accusing the recipient of being too sensitive. 

Repressing Anger

People who are passive-aggressive rarely show anger. Instead, they stuff it down inside. They may even appear happy and accommodating, but their passive-aggressive actions often stem from anger that they don’t feel comfortable expressing directly. Instead, they do so indirectly. They might give you the silent treatment, for instance. You might have no idea why this is happening—especially if the person denied they were even mad. Or they may ostracize you from a group, use passive violence (like slamming books or doors), or engage in subtle forms of relational aggression.

Assuming the Victim Mentality

A person with passive-aggressive tendencies often feels as if they’ve been treated unfairly or that they’ve been taken advantage of. Because of these feelings, it is not uncommon for them to have a victim mentality.

Someone acting as a passive-aggressive bully doesn’t see themselves as the bully in the situation. In their mind, the other person is the one who is bullying them.

Having No Boundaries

People with passive-aggressiveness tend to lack boundaries. At the same time, they gravitate toward others who have the same type of boundary issues, often focusing on conflict-averse, people-pleasing individuals. This type of person typically won’t address or demand accountability for the passive-aggressive actions against them.

By interacting with people who don’t protect their boundaries, the person who is passive-aggressive doesn’t have to be honest about their feelings or take responsibility for their behaviors. And they can continue to express their hostilities without a fight.

Someone who is into astrology doesn’t just know their sun sign, they also know their moon sign, rising sign, and everything else in their astrological chart. They follow any astrology Instagram account they can find, and their phone notifications are constantly providing updates from their favorite astrology apps.

Astrology is generally considered a pseudoscience versus being a science. There are no scientific and peer-reviewed studies that validate its premises and promises. That said, it can still be a fun and harmless tool to engage with to learn more about one’s self. 

But what is it about the messages in the stars that are so appealing? We’ve combed the studies and talked to an astrologist who is also a psychologist to find out. Here’s what we’ve learned.

What Is Astrology?

Astrology is the study of how the positions of the stars and planets are believed to affect human lives. The first organized astrological system appeared in the Old Babylonian period more than 2,000 years ago. 

In astrology, people are assigned a specific sign based on their date of birth. These are also referred to as zodiac signs, the zodiac being a belt of the sky where the paths of the sun, moon, and planets are said to move. It is divided into 12 constellations, each representing roughly a month’s time with the “year” beginning at the Northern Hemisphere spring equinox.

The zodiac signs are:

• Aries: March 21–April 19
• Taurus: April 20–May 20
• Gemini: May 21–June 21
• Cancer: June 22–July 22
• Leo: July 23–August 22
• Virgo: August 23–September 22
• Libra: September 23–October 23
• Scorpio: October 24–November 21
• Sagittarius: November 22–December 21
•  Capricorn: December 22–January 19
•  Aquarius: January 20–February 18
•  Pisces: February 19–March 20

Why Do People Believe in Astrology?

A belief in astrology is, in some ways, a coping mechanism. Research suggests that it helps people make sense of things during times when life feels complex. Astrology becomes a tool that can be turned to for comfort.

History shows that people have been more interested in astrology during tumultuous times, with interest rising during the Great Depression in the 1930s as well as in Germany between the two world wars. More recently, astrology boomed in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Why does astrology peak during tough times? “Because so many of the traditional institutions have failed to provide a meaning map for people,” says Jennifer Freed, PhD, a psychologist and astrologist. “Also, astrology, unlike those institutions, has been a place of welcoming for all people.”

It Gives Us a Sense of Control

Another aspect is that astrology may appeal to those who perceive an external locus of control. Someone with an external locus of control will credit outside forces for both the good and the bad, blaming those forces if something goes wrong and crediting luck for success. 

Therefore, astrology can be appealing to them because they believe it can give them a hit of good luck that might bolster them to seek other forms of internal reinforcement. It might also be that it is an illusion of control.

It’s a Way to Understand Our Identity

Astrology is seen as a way that one seeks validation for their self-identity, or how they think about themselves. Freed agrees, seeing it as a tool for people to use to “develop their unique gifts and use it for confirmation and encouragement.”

Additionally, we are more likely as humans to remember positive feedback that validates our self-conception over negative feedback. For this reason, it’s easy to accept the ambiguous and positive aspects of astrology.

It’s Hard to Tolerate Ambiguity 

Astrology may also appeal to those with an intolerance for ambiguity. Similar to how it is used as a coping mechanism, it can provide a sense of stability in the face of uncertainty.

Humans have a profound desire to understand the world. If we can understand what’s going on around us, we can make better decisions for ourselves and our families. This is a survival tactic.

“As human beings throughout eons, we’ve always been in the quest to understand our existence and make meaning of our lives,” says Freed. “Astrology is the oldest system of trying to understand existence and personalities and our personal destinies.”

Getting Started With Astrology

Freed views astrology meme accounts or newspaper horoscopes as entertainment. For people who want to begin to dip their toes into learning about astrology, she recommends starting with astrology apps —particularly apps that ask for the user’s time and place of birth, as she says those will provide more accurate information. 

Sometimes, the day sort of gets you down, or you find yourself in a slog that’s hard to work your way out of. Maybe something happened at work that wasn’t great, you’re working through a complicated situationship, or you got some not-so-great news. Hey, we’ve all been there and you’re definitely not alone in this ever-spinning roller coaster of life! 

While good habits practiced over the long term are the ultimate way to enjoy satisfaction in life, there are occasions when a little “pick-me-up” is exactly what your mind and body need to get over the hurdle. Consider these bite-sized actions that take no more than a few minutes of your time but can instantly boost your mood. 

Mood-Boosting Tips and Tricks

Pick one or more of these items and commit to doing them. See how a small action can instantly boost your mood. Maybe pick a number at random or scan the list for an idea that resonates most with you at this moment.

1. Text an old friend about one of your favorite shared memories. 
2. Smile—even forcing a smile can trick your mind into triggering happy chemicals. 
3. Watch a favorite episode of one of your go-to TV shows. 
4. Give someone a compliment! Their appreciation will make both of you feel good, and they may throw a flattering return compliment your way, too.
5. Take a few deep, intentional breaths. In through your nose, out through your mouth. 
6. Open YouTube. Type “cute [insert your favorite animal here] videos.”
7. Put on an upbeat playlist that brings you joy. 
8. Write down three things you love about yourself. This helps cultivate self-compassion and self-esteem. 
9. Call or video chat with a loved one to help strengthen your connections and receive some emotional support.
10. Send someone well wishes for the day or the weekend. Simply doing so can reduce your anxiety and boost happiness.
11. Step outside and go for a quick walk. You’ll get bonus points in your mood-boost if it’s a particularly sunny day. 
12. Look back at old photos to usher in some happy memories. 
13. Stand up and do 25 jumping jacks for a heart-pumping experience. It’ll make you feel alive, and a 2017 review in Brain Plasticity found that people reported a better mood following exercise.
14. Complete a free guided meditation, or spend five minutes with your eyes closed, visualizing one of your favorite places in the world. 
15. Do a random act of kindness for someone to generate feelings of happiness and fulfillment. 
16. If you’re feeling it, extend your workout from five to 20 minutes and enjoy the “runner’s high” effect even more. 
17. Volunteer, donate, or simply lend a hand to someone in need.
18. Put on calming nature sounds and listen attentively (or passively!) for as long as you’d like. 
19. Buy yourself a beverage you love and pay it forward to the person behind you in line. 
20. Write an email of appreciation to a colleague who recently did something nice for you, who went above and beyond, or who has been a great support to you. 
21. Write a text message to a friend or family member you admire and look up to, letting them know just how much they mean to you. 
22. Read a short story or poem that inspires you to ignite creativity and foster a sense of emotional fortitude.
23. Play with your pets. Research has found that simply snuggling, playing, and petting our pets can trigger endorphins and improve our mood! 
24. Hug a friend or partner for five to 10 seconds. Trust us, it works!
25. No friend nearby to hug or pet to snuggle? Grab a pillow and hug it tightly for a few seconds to release tension and feel comforted.
26. Pour yourself a nice cup of herbal tea, holding it closely in your hands and savoring the taste and smell. 
27. Put on your current favorite song, and let it wash over you! 
28. Open up a door for someone and give ‘em a big smile. 
29. Ask a friend, family member, or colleague if there’s anything you can do to help them out. 
30. Practice the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique: Name five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.
31. Do a quick brain teaser—like a puzzle or word game—to stimulate cognitive function and distract yourself from negative thoughts. 
32. Try the emotional freedom technique (EFT). This tapping therapy helps release negative emotions. EFT involves tapping on specific meridian points on the body (e.g., the top of the head, chin point, or collarbone) while verbalizing affirmations, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation.
33. Grab a journal and write down five things you’re grateful for. Simply practicing gratitude can help you feel better. 
34. Plan something fun for the weekend so you can have something to look forward to in the days to come!
35. Give yourself a quick facial massage to relieve tension and promote relaxation. Focus around the jaw and temples.
36. Turn on a motivational TedTalk and learn some new tools you can take with you in life. 
37. Jot down what’s causing you stress, sadness, or discomfort and three solutions you can try to overcome the issue. 
38. Stand up and stretch for a few minutes. Touch your fingers to your toes, lift them high into the air, and maybe get a few cat-cow or downward dogs in there! 
39. Open up a window, close your eyes for a few minutes, and breathe in the fresh air. 
40. Watch the sunset or sunrise to appreciate the beauty of nature. Notice how the sky changes colors in a matter of minutes. 
41. Practice positive visualization: Imagine yourself achieving a goal or living your dream life in vivid detail.
42. Grab a glass of cool water and drink up. Sometimes, quenching thirst can make you feel amazing. 
43. Watch a short video of your favorite comedian or a bit that never fails to make you laugh.  
44. Spend a few minutes organizing the space immediately around you. Toss any trash and put away items you don’t need. A cleaner space will lift your mood. 
45. If you’re feeling sleepy, let yourself rest via a quick power nap. 
46. Do a quick body scan to note any areas where you’re holding a lot of tension, like in your jaw, shoulders, or neck. Slowly release. 
47. Grab a healthy snack, like a handful of nuts or a delicious piece of fresh fruit. 
48. Alternatively, savor a piece of dark chocolate to release serotonin and indulge your senses. 
49. Try loving-kindness meditation, which involves sending well-wishes to yourself and others. This simple practice has been shown to increase feelings of compassion and happiness. 
50. Read an inspirational quote or poem to find some motivation and perspective.
51.  Write down one or two things you’ve accomplished today. It’s important to celebrate our wins (however small) to boost self-esteem and motivation. 
52. If you’re feeling it, put on an upbeat song with a great beat, get up, and dance your heart out. Even if it seems silly, it’ll help you feel better! 
53. Sniff a calming scent like lavender or citrus for a little aromatherapy relaxation action. 
54. Peruse an online art gallery or artist’s portfolio to admire the creativity and brilliance of others. 
55. Open up a book and get reading. This can help clear your mind while directing your focus to something new. 
56. Take a stroll through a nearby park to connect with nature, move your body, and clear your mind. 
57. Sing a song that makes you happy. You can sing along to a recording or hum it. In a 2022 study, music interventions (including singing and music therapy) provided comparable benefits when compared to non-pharmaceutical interventions.
58. Repeat a positive affirmation or mantra three times, like “I am loved” or “I am strong” to affirm your self-worth and foster positive intentions. 
59. Remind yourself that at this moment—even if you’re feeling anxious, scared, or worried—the feeling will pass, and you’ll come through on the other side. 
60. Write down the thing worrying or affecting you right now, then rip the paper to symbolically release concerns and promote mental clarity.
61. Take steps to plan your next big adventure, whether it’s a party with friends, a weekend getaway, or a long vacation to a far-flung locale. 
62. Look up at the sky and appreciate its vastness. This promotes a sense of awe while helping you connect with nature. 
63. Visit a local coffee shop, bookstore, flower shop, or boutique that you’ve wanted to check out for a while. Snap a picture and share it with friends. 
64. Jot down three different hobbies or activities you’ve been wanting to try, then figure out a way to make one of them happen! 
65. If you’re at work, complete a round or two of chair yoga to help stretch your body and clear your mind. 
66. Dive into a deep conversation with another person. Discussing topics that matter to you both can help ignite positive emotions and strengthen your bond. 
67. Designate some time to get creative via painting, writing, cooking, or similar. Creative activities allow us to tap into self-expression, work through thoughts, and clear our minds.  
68. Donate to a good cause. Find an organization or non-profit that resonates with you and donate what you can. Even $5 can go a long way! 
69. Try laughter yoga (yes, it’s a real thing!). You can join a class or watch a guide online. Laughter yoga combines laughter exercises with deep breathing techniques to help you feel relaxed and happy.  
70. Do a little humblebragging by sharing something you’re proud of with a friend, on a group chat, or even online. This allows other people to celebrate your wins, too! 
71. Draw yourself a warm bath and soak away your worries. Put on a candle or diffuser, some light music, and enjoy. 
72. Practice forgiveness. Consider something that you’ve been holding onto for a while—either about another person or yourself—and practice compassion and forgiveness. 
73. Put yourself on a digital detox for at least an hour. The pull of those TikTok videos, scary news headlines, and posts from others can start to overwhelm us, so give your mind a nice break. 
74. Buy yourself a bouquet of flowers and keep them on your desk or somewhere you see often. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive—simply bringing the outdoors in and treating yourself to something nice can help perk you up.
75. Go for a drive somewhere (if it’s a nice day, roll your windows down).

Whichever of these mood-boosting techniques you choose, really allow yourself to lean into it and enjoy the benefits. And don’t hesitate to do a few things from the list at once—it’ll only help you feel better!

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental “disorder” that impacts the way the brain functions. We put the word disorder in quotation marks because while ADHD is a disorder in the DSM-5, it is more commonly viewed by physicians and neurodivergent individuals as having a brain that simply works differently than neurotypicals.

An estimated 5% of people around the world live with ADHD, which starts in childhood but often persists into adulthood.

We will always encourage people with ADHD to embrace those ways of thinking and characteristics that make them unique. Still, there are certain stressors and symptoms caused by ADHD that can be managed so that you can be the best version of your neurodivergent self.

Comparing ADHD Types

ADHD is typically characterized by two types of traits or characteristics:

• Traits of inattention: These characteristics or behaviors can make it hard for the person to pay attention or stay organized.
• Traits of hyperactivity and impulsivity: These characteristics or behaviors can make it difficult for the person to sit still, causing them to move around constantly. They may have difficulty controlling their impulses and behaviors.

There are three types of ADHD, which are distinguished based on the characteristics or behaviors the person has:

• ADHD inattentive type: This type of ADHD is characterized by characteristics or behaviors of inattention. People with this type of ADHD may have few or no hyperactivity and impulsivity traits. This form of ADHD is sometimes referred to as attention deficit disorder (ADD), although the term ADD is an outdated one that is not used anymore.
• ADHD hyperactive/impulsive type: This type of ADHD is characterized by characteristics or behaviors of hyperactivity and impulsivity. People with this type of ADHD may have few or no symptoms of inattention.
• ADHD combined type: People who have ADHD combined type have characteristics or behaviors of inattention as well as those of hyperactivity and impulsivity. This is the most common type of ADHD. 

This article explores the characteristics, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of inattentive type ADHD.

Characteristics of ADHD Inattentive Type

Children or adults with ADHD inattentive type primarily display traits of inattention, which include:

• Having difficulty focusing on tasks at school or work
• Not paying close attention to detail, which can result in careless mistakes in schoolwork or work assignments
• Being disorganized, resulting in missed appointments and deadlines
• Getting distracted easily
• Leaving tasks such as assignments, chores, or other activities incomplete
• Frequently losing personal belongings and valuables
• Forgetting things often
• Failing to follow through on instructions and appearing not to listen when spoken to directly
• Avoiding tasks that require sustained focus for longer periods of time

In addition to characteristics of inattention, people with ADHD inattentive type may also have a few characteristics of hyperactivity and impulsivity, which include:

• Fidgeting, tapping, or squirming while seated
• Having difficulty remaining seated, in class or at work for instance
• Pacing, or in children, running around or climbing instead of staying seated
• Making a lot of noise while playing or participating in leisure activities
• Constantly feeling restless and being on the go, as though powered by a motor
• Talking too much
• Responding to questions before they’re asked, speaking out of turn, or finishing other peoples’ sentences
• Being unable to wait their turn patiently
• Interrupting, intruding on, or taking over others’ conversations or activities

Causes of ADHD Inattentive Type

The exact causes of these differences in the brain are unknown; however, these are some factors that may contribute to the development of this condition:

• Genetic factors: ADHD can be genetically inherited; a child may be more likely to have it if one of their parents or relatives has it.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental toxins may play a role in the development of ADHD. For instance, a 2016 study found that exposure to lead can cause ADHD in children.
• Early life factors: Premature birth, alcohol or tobacco use during pregnancy, and traumatic events or injuries in early life may contribute to the development of ADHD.

Diagnosing ADHD Inattentive Type

ADHD inattentive type can be diagnosed by a mental healthcare provider such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. A primary care physician, family doctor, or pediatrician can provide a reference to a healthcare provider who specializes in ADHD.

The diagnostic process may involve:

• A detailed personal and family medical history
• A standard rating scale or checklist of symptoms and their severity 
• An interview with the healthcare provider
• Interviews with the child’s family members or teachers
• Other psychological tests, blood work, physical exams, or imaging scans required to rule out other conditions or confirm the diagnosis

The healthcare provider will determine whether the person’s symptoms meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD inattentive type laid out in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual:

• The person has had the symptoms for over six months.
• The person has had many of the symptoms since before they were 12.
• The symptoms are present in two or more settings, such as school/work, home, social settings, or while doing other activities.
• The symptoms significantly interfere with the person’s ability to function.
• The symptoms are not better explained by another mental health condition.

Treating ADHD Inattentive Type

Once again, having ADHD does not mean anything is wrong with you, or that you have something to be cured. However, treatment can help people with ADHD inattentive type manage some of the more challenging characteristics and reduce their difficulties, particularly those related to work or school, where focus is required. Treatment options include medication and therapy.

Medication

There are several FDA-approved medications that can treat people ages six and above. These are some of the types of medications that may be prescribed to treat ADHD inattentive type:

• Stimulants: These are the most widely used medications in the treatment of ADHD. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of the chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, in order to help with attention and cognition.
• Non-stimulants: These medications take longer to work than stimulants but they can also help with the symptoms of ADHD inattentive type. Non-stimulant medication may be prescribed in combination with stimulants, if stimulants are ineffective, or if stimulants cause too many side effects.
• Antidepressants: Depending on the person’s symptoms, side effects, and any other health conditions they might have, their healthcare provider may also prescribe antidepressant medication. Antidepressants can be particularly helpful if the person also has a mood or anxiety disorder.

Therapy

Therapy can help people with ADHD inattentive type improve their focus and manage their condition better. These are some forms of therapy that may be helpful:

• Behavioral therapy, which helps people monitor and change their behavior.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps people become more aware of their thought processes and teaches them how to improve their focus and concentration.
• Family and marital therapy, which helps partners and family members learn how to support the person with ADHD inattentive type and improve their interactions with them.
• Parenting skills training, which is also known as behavioral training for parents. It can teach parents whose children have ADHD how to encourage positive behaviors in their children and discourage negative behaviors.
• Support groups, which can help people with ADHD and their parents or families connect with others who share their experiences.

Coping With ADHD Inattentive Type

These are some steps that can help people with ADHD inattentive type cope with the condition:

• Reduce distractions: Switch off the television, maintain a clean workspace, and limit other noises and distractions while trying to work, to help improve focus.
• Break up lengthy tasks: Tasks that require sustained attention may be daunting for people with ADHD inattentive type. Dividing the task into smaller chunks can make it more manageable.
• Budget enough time: It can be helpful to start on schoolwork or work assignments in advance, with plenty of activity breaks scheduled in between. 
• Build a routine: It can be helpful to build and maintain a daily routine, to encourage consistency.
• Follow a healthy lifestyle: Eat a nutritious diet, get sufficient sleep, and exercise regularly.